Bronx ‘Tree of Angels’ lighting honors the memories of homicide victims

The Bronx District Attorney’s office will light the “Tree of Angels” on Friday, commemorating victims of homicide for the sixth year.

On Dec. 9 at 6 p.m. at the Crime Victims Assistance Unit’s office located at 4101 White Plains Road, an anticipated 100 ornaments will be hung by family members and friends honoring the memory of their loved ones with an angelic ornament, the DA said.

“This special tradition, created by a mother determined to carry on the memory of her slain daughter, is a reminder to grieving families that you are not alone,” Bronx DA Darcel Clark said. “We grieve with you. We have not forgotten these innocent lives cut short and we will continue to fight for justice in their memory.”

Milagros Guzman placed an angel ornament on her Christmas tree 15 years ago in honor of her 10-year-old daughter, Jessica, who was strangled by a serial killer in 1990.

In 2010, the tradition continued in the courtyard outside the Crime Victims Assistance Unit and dozens of angels are hung.

“The holidays can be particularly difficult for the loved ones of a homicide victim,” Director of the Crime Victims Assistance Unit Beth Ann Holzhay said. “We have been doing this event to acknowledge their pain and reduce the isolation they endure. It also helps them to remember their loved one in their living.”