Brooklyn, NY - Congressman Towns expressed his deep remorse and grief over the loss of Akira Johnson, who drowned while enjoying the beach last Saturday in Coney Island.  Her body was recovered yesterday off the Brooklyn shore.

“When I first heard of Akira's sudden death, it shook me to the core", said the Congressman.  "When the life of a young child has been tragically cut short, we must all pause to mourn what could have been.  Akira was a shining light in the lives of her mother and father, her family, her church community, and her friends.  She brought so much pride to her entire family.  I pray that her memory continues to be a source of blessing and an inspiration in our lives.

This tragedy highlights the importance of maintaining safety on our beaches.  When the tidal waves and undercurrent were so strong as to drown six others that day, why were the beaches not closed?  Yet, the number of lifeguards employed by the City remains about 10% below full staffing levels.  We need to do whatever it takes to assure the safety of our beaches to prevent tragedies such as this.”

Akira's funeral has been scheduled for this Monday at the Gospel Assembly.

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Return to Congressman Towns' website