Family and friends gathered in Chandler to mark what would have been Preston Lord’s 19th birthday, honouring the teenager’s memory while calling for greater community action to tackle youth violence.
The event was held on Wednesday, September 23, at The Stillery in downtown Chandler as part of Preston Lord Day, which was established in the city in remembrance of the teenager.
Organised with support from the Justice4PrestonLord non-profit, the gathering featured community speakers, local organisations offering information and support, and fundraising activities. Attendees were encouraged to wear orange, Preston’s favourite colour.
Lord was 16 when he was attacked after a Halloween party in Queen Creek on October 28, 2023. He died two days later from injuries sustained in the assault.
His family has since worked with community groups to promote awareness of teen violence and support initiatives intended to help young people. The birthday gathering was presented as an opportunity not only to remember Preston, but also to encourage residents to take part in efforts to make their communities safer.
