The Richmond Hill community is preparing to gather in sorrow and solidarity as the family of Liam Riazati, the toddler who tragically died after a vehicle crashed into a daycare last week, holds a public memorial service in his honor.
The service will take place on Sunday morning at 10 a.m., offering an opportunity for friends, neighbors, and community members to remember the little boy whose life was cut far too short.
In a statement shared through a family spokesperson, Liam’s loved ones described the memorial not only as a time to celebrate his young life but also as a platform to demand accountability and change. They emphasized that Liam’s story must become a catalyst for reform, ensuring that no other family is forced to endure such a devastating loss.
“Liam’s life was cut short, but his story must bring change,” the family said. “He was our only child and grandchild — the heart of our family. His laughter, his boundless curiosity, and his love for balloons, balls, flowers, and teddy bears will forever remain in our hearts.”
Loved ones described Liam as a joyful, bright, and loving child who brought warmth and happiness into the lives of everyone who had the privilege of knowing him. They expressed that his loss has left an irreplaceable emptiness, yet his memory will continue to shine as their greatest treasure.
Beyond mourning, Liam’s family is calling for a transparent investigation into the circumstances of his death, as well as stricter safety regulations for child-care centres across Ontario.
They noted that daycare facilities should be sanctuaries for children, not places where parents must worry about their safety during routine drop-offs and pick-ups.
The family pointed out that the location of the Richmond Hill centre — within a commercial plaza, next to a busy parking lot, and behind walls of glass — made it especially vulnerable to such a tragedy. “No parent should ever have to wonder if ‘drop-off’ is safe. No child should ever feel the fear that some children felt that day,” the statement read.
The collision at First Roots Early Education Academy left not only Liam dead but also injured seven children and three adults, who were rushed to local hospitals. Police confirmed that the driver, a man in his 70s, has been charged with dangerous operation causing death and two counts of dangerous operation causing bodily harm.
The tragedy has prompted swift political response. Ontario Education Minister Paul Calandra announced proposals requiring municipalities and child-care operators to eliminate parking spaces directly adjacent to daycare entryways, windows, and playground areas.
Home-based child-care operations would be exempt, but Calandra emphasized that his ministry will work with inspectors and service providers to identify vulnerabilities and take immediate action, even ahead of legislative changes.
For Liam’s family, however, legislative measures are not only necessary but urgent. They hope his death will spark reforms that ensure safer environments for children across Ontario.
As the community prepares to honor Liam’s short yet impactful life, his parents and grandparents hold tightly to the belief that his legacy will inspire change and protect others.
“His loss has left an emptiness that can never be filled, but his memory will forever remain our greatest treasure.”
