The artist creates a memorial of the victims of the Potomak River Crash – NBC Washington

In the shadow of the deep tragedy is a memorial in honor of the lost 67 lives.

“It may be a small gesture, but I do it with all my heart,” says Roberto Marquez, the Texas artist who creates a memorial.

“It’s a message and it’s dedicated to these lives because they have lost a loved one,” he said.

When Marquez heard about the horrific crash on Wednesday night, he decided he would build a cross for every victim of Run Run, not far from the scene of the crash.

This is not the first memorial to be built after a tragedy. Last year, he made one for the victims of the collapse of the key bridge.

“It’s not for me,” he said, “It’s for someone else. It’s for the community.”

The community is responsible. Several people appeared on Saturday to see the memorial.

“I’m a teacher,” said Tina King of Texas. “To see so many young children and young people … So, I just wanted to thank someone for doing something so sweet from his heart.”

A local pastor and her daughter came to pray with every cross.

“This does not affect only one person or family members, more concretely,” said Stephanie Singh of the last rain church. “I think this is built for a community at this point.”

Both families thanked Marquez for taking the time to help the community cure.

“I have high hopes that this memorial, enough people will come so that their loved ones know that they are not alone,” Marquez said.