Rochester, NY – The Rochester community is coming together to support the family of Lafayama Chapman, who tragically lost his life in a devastating car accident on Friday, August 16, 2024. Chapman, 36, was struck by a car in a chain reaction crash that occurred outside the Hooked Fish Market at Driving Park and Dewey Avenue. The accident tragically pinned Chapman between the car and the storefront shortly after he had left the market’s nightly food bank with a piece of cake.
The owner of Hooked Fish Market, known for his commitment to providing free food to those in need, is heartbroken over this tragedy. "This was a wrong place, wrong time situation," he reflected, noting how the accident injured staff and could have caused even more harm. Despite his sorrow, the owner is advocating for the community to contribute to a GoFundMe campaign organized by Rashad Smith to support Chapman’s family during this difficult time.
The fundraiser has raised $140 out of a $15,000 goal so far, with donations from individuals such as Betty Brown, Nichole Bradley, Hannah Davis, and Ginger Price. The community is urged to contribute to help ease the financial burden on Chapman’s family.
Rashad J. Smith-Cooper, a supporter of the campaign, expressed his grief on Facebook, stating, "This is such a tragedy. Everyday People PR is supporting our client Hooked Fish in raising funds to support the family of Lafayama Chapman." Another Facebook user, Chris Sumner, shared, "Wow, he was one of my participants at CEO," reflecting the personal impact Chapman had on those who knew him. Cinamin Blanding also expressed gratitude, saying, "Thank you for doing this."
The funeral for Lafayama Chapman is scheduled for Saturday, August 31, 2024, at Goodwill Baptist Church on Clifton Street in Rochester. The drivers involved in the crash have been arrested, but the community remains focused on supporting the grieving family and remembering the life of Lafayama Chapman.
The Hooked Fish Market owner and the Rochester community continue to demonstrate resilience and solidarity in the face of this unimaginable tragedy.