Tribute to Darien Leigh Richardson

On January 8, 2010, at 1:30 a.m., my daughter, Darien Richardson was a victim of an extremely violent crime – shot while asleep in her own bed, in her own bedroom by masked intruders with a gun in the duplex home she rented in Portland, Maine. Darien was just 25 years old at the time of this violent, armed home invasion which critically injured her, causing her to spend 20 days in the hospital enduring much physical pain and mental anguish. Darien’s life was turned upside down in one night, her physical injures confined her to a hospital bed unable to walk and she would require several more surgeries to completely recover from her wounds. She was unable to work and she was unable to return to her home all because a violent invasion of what should be her most personal sanctuary. Tragically, on February 28, 2010, Darien died – less than two months after this home invasion – due to complications from those gunshot wounds received on January 8, 2010. Darien was an intelligent, vibrant, hardworking, independent, educated – a wonderful young woman. She was a talented young woman who accomplished much in her short life but had many more hopes and dreams to fulfill. Darien was kind, helpful, generous, and loving – a productive and contributing member of society. Darien was always smiling and loved by all who had the good fortune to know her. Darien Richardson, was an innocent victim of a senseless, violent crime that cut her life far too short. Darien experienced something that no one should ever have to go through. This homicide remains unsolved.

Our family has been devastated by the loss of Darien, we love and miss her so – we will never be the same. In honor of Darien and her giving spirit we have formed a non-profit foundation to bring awareness and support to other victims of violent crimes. Please visit the site by clicking here.