In a heartbreaking incident, Chianti Means and her two young children tragically lost their lives after an apparent fall over Niagara Falls near Luna Island. The incident, reported on October 28, 2024, has prompted a significant response from law enforcement agencies in the area.
According to the New York State Police, Chianti Means, a 33-year-old resident of Niagara Falls, New York, and her children, nine-year-old Roman Rossman and five-month-old Mecca Means, went over a safety railing on Luna Island. Investigators believe the incident was intentional, though they are still examining the exact circumstances. The New York State Park Police and the Bureau of Criminal Investigation responded to the emergency call at approximately 9:00 p.m. on October 28, initiating a comprehensive search and rescue operation.
Despite efforts from various agencies, including the New York State Park Police Unmanned Aircraft Systems, Marine Patrol, NYSP Aviation, and Underwater Recovery Unit, the bodies have not been recovered. Niagara Charter Schools, the Niagara Falls Police Department, and other local resources have also joined the investigation to provide support.
The father of one of the children has since launched a fundraising campaign to honor and memorialize Chianti and the children, aiming to gather support to help cover burial costs and preserve their memories. As the investigation proceeds, authorities continue to seek answers, with many in the community mourning this tragic loss.
