WILLIAMSPORT -- An annual block party in Williamsport attracted thousands of people Wednesday night for free food, drinks and fun. The event has been a tradition for more than 20 years.
“There's a lot of people here. There's a lot of games and fun stuff and bouncy houses,” said Asia Ceaser of Williamsport.
This year’s celebration on Cherry Street in the city, sponsored by Antioch Baptist Church, also had a message of anti-violence.
The past few weeks alone have brought stabbings, shootings, a home invasion and more to the city.
“It's always something bad when you hear Williamsport. Williasmport is so bad. It's not bad. People want to help, people want to do something but someone has to take initiative and say 'Hey! Let's do it first.' That's the first step,” said Darrick Rizzo of Antioch Baptist Church.
Chaz Sawyer, 18, was shot and killed at Newberry Estates housing complex in the city last week.
The accused shooter has been charged with carrying a gun without a permit and police said the investigation continues.
Sawyer's family and friends, wore white t-shirts in his memory at the Cherry Street block party.
"I never thought it would ever happen to my family. People at the end of the day are going to do what they're going to do, but I know for a fact that it's changed everybody close to my brother and my family, so all we can do is try,” said Kristen Sawyer, the victim’s sister.
