03/26/2026
Vigil for Dylan Moon Sparks Call to Support Hoopa Valley Youth
“We Need to Rise Up”: Hoopa Community Unites After Tragic Loss of Teen
By Bonny Abarr, KMC PR Specialist
Last Thursday, K’ima:w Medical Center (KMC), in partnership with the Hoopa Valley Tribe, organized a candlelight vigil and community walk in memory of Dylan Moon, a 17-year-old Hoopa Tribal member who was tragically killed on March 10, 2026—just two weeks before his 18th birthday.
While the gathering honored Dylan’s life, it also served as a powerful reminder to the youth of the community: their lives matter. In the wake of this tragedy, the Hoopa Valley community has been called to reflect more deeply on the challenges facing its young people and the urgent need for connection, support, and guidance.
“I don’t cast doubt. I don’t cast shame. I hold no ill will, and I hope that message can reach you,” Hoopa Valley High School teacher Curtis Kane Sr. shared with the crowd gathered at the Hoopa Tribal Office, urging unity and compassion during a time of grief.
The evening began with an opening prayer by Isaac Bussell, followed by remarks from Kane. The walk was set to begin at the Tribal Office lawn and end at the Hoopa High School football field.
“We are in a time of need,” Kane said. “A time where we need to step in for each other. A time where mothers have to teach their sons to play baseball. So, I thank every one of you who showed up tonight.” His words underscored a call for stronger community presence—especially from male role models—to support the next generation.
“We need to rise up for a young man who was taken from us—not just from his parents or his family, but from our entire community,” he continued. “I got to share some fatherly experiences with this boy, and my heart really hurts right now. Is this the end, or is this the start of something more?”
Kane’s speech moved many to tears. Though rooted in grief, his message inspired a shared commitment to healing and doing better for the youth impacted by this loss. As his remarks concluded, the candlelight walk began.
Hoopa Valley Tribal Police closed Loop Road from Pine Creek to Fisheries as hundreds of community members walked together in solidarity, holding battery-powered candles close to their chests. The scene was both solemn and beautiful—students and adults side by side, some quietly sharing memories, others reflecting inwardly. Moments like this, when the Hoopa community comes together, are powerful reminders of its strength and resilience.
At the football field, Vice Chairman Jordan Hailey delivered additional remarks, while Hoopa Valley High School staff provided hot chocolate for attendees. Sheriff William Honsal also joined the walk in solidarity. Law enforcement maintained a visible presence to ensure safety. Despite a few emotional moments from grieving family members, the gathering remained peaceful and deeply meaningful.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), homicide is the fourth leading cause of death among Native American males ages 1–44, with nearly half of those incidents stemming from arguments when a cause is known. Statistics like these highlight a harsh reality for many Tribal communities—but in moments like this, those numbers become deeply personal.
K’ima:w Medical Center extends its heartfelt condolences to all those affected by this tragic loss. For anyone struggling—whether with grief, belonging, or making sense of what has happened—support is available. Please do not hesitate to reach out. KMC counselors are here to help and can be reached at (530) 625-4261.
