The grieving family of 18-month-old Liam Riazati, who was killed last week when an SUV plowed into a Richmond Hill daycare, is calling for urgent action to ensure such a tragedy never happens again.
Hundreds of mourners gathered Sunday at Elgin Mills Cemetery to say goodbye to Liam, whose death has shaken the community. White flowers surrounded the funeral hall as photos of the smiling toddler played on a screen. At the gravesite, dozens of bright helium balloons were released into the sky — a poignant tribute to a life cut short.
Liam’s mother, Behnoosh Noori, broke down as she read a letter to her son. “It’s been three days now, and we’ve been like walking dead in our own home,” she said. “Life doesn’t go on without you, Liam.”
Liam’s aunt, Mina Riazati, pleaded for new laws requiring daycare facilities to be built with stronger safety measures, such as protective barriers and restricted parking near play areas and windows. “Please do something,” she urged officials. “Stop just saying nice words and acting like you care. Make some rules, regulations.”
York Regional Police confirmed that two other children remain in critical condition. A 70-year-old man is facing dangerous driving charges, though police say the crash was not intentional.
Richmond Hill Mayor David West called the incident one of the saddest days in the city’s history and said he will press for swift provincial action. Education Minister Paul Calandra has indicated Ontario is reviewing legislation to require higher curbs, bollards, and other safety measures near childcare centres.
Family members say promises aren’t enough — they want Liam’s legacy to be real, lasting change that protects children across the province. “We all need to continue every single day to make this world safer for every kid,” said family member Saeedeh Pourmusa. “That’s not something we can stop trying for.”