South Queens, NY — Tomorrow, Assemblywoman Jenifer Rajkumar (D-AD 38) will host a press conference and vigil in memory of Ritawantee “Rita” Persaud, a beloved leader in New York’s Guyanese community who died in a hit-and-run crash on Christmas Eve 2020. This comes after the NYPD’s announcement Thursday of the alleged perpetrator’s arrest.

The event will be Sunday, September 26 at 6pm, outside the Church of the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary on 101-41 91st Street in Queens, steps away from the tragic crash site.

Joining Rajkumar will be Queens District Attorney Melinda Katz, Representatives from the NYPD, Elected Officials, Community Leader Romeo Hitlall, Prominent Guyanese leaders, as well as Persaud’s many friends and family.

Rita Persaud was a loving and dedicated member of the Guyanese Hindu community. She worked constantly in service to others, in addition to being an accountant and gifted singer.

“Rita Persaud was a beautiful soul and a leader in the Guyanese Community who devoted her life to seva, the Hindu practice of selfless service, and touched so many lives,” said Assemblywoman Rajkumar. “Because of the fine work of the NYPD, we can finally have justice for her and her family. I only hope that, after nine agonizing months, the arrest brings comfort to the many people in mourning.”