Northeast News

October 13, 2016

KANSAS CITY, Missouri – Wednesday, October 12 marked the one-year anniversary of the Independence Avenue fire that killed firefighters Larry Leggio and John Mesh.

A vigil organized by the families drew a crowd of over 400 people, including firefighters from at least four stations. The vigil was held at the scene of the deadly fire, next to Snyder’s Supermarket (2620 Independence Avenue). Independence Avenue was closed for the event. Deacon Mike Lewis, a Historic Northeast native, officiated the service and balloon release. During the service, Lewis advocated for turning the site of the fire into permanent parkland dedicated to the memory of Mesh and Leggio.

“This should be considered sacred ground,” Lewis said, “dedicated to the memory of these local heroes.”

Family members of the fallen firefighters also spoke during the emotional event.

“This past year has been really hard on all of us,” said Alyssa Mesh, John’s daughter. “If there was some way that I could go back to that day, I would have never let him go to work.”

Missy Leggio, wife to Larry, urged attendees to preserve her husband’s legacy by holding onto their most cherished memories.

“I know each and every one of you have that one story, if not more, about Larry that you hang on to,” said Leggio. “And it hits you in that really sad moment that you miss him the most. We need to continue to remember that story.”