WASHINGTON, DC – A recent college graduate, Ryan Realbuto, 23, was fatally shot in an attempted robbery while living in Washington, DC to work with the Capuchin Franciscan Volunteer Corps. Realbuto, originally from upstate New York, was dedicated to aiding underserved communities with the volunteer program.
According to reports, Realbuto was walking home with friends when they were approached by a car. The assailant, who is still at large, exited the vehicle and demanded money. When the group had no cash to offer, the suspect shot Realbuto and fled the scene. Despite efforts to stop the bleeding and emergency surgery, Realbuto succumbed to his injuries.
Realbuto’s aunt, Lynn Fenicchia, has started a GoFundMe page to raise money for the unexpected medical costs, ambulance fees, transportation of Ryan’s remains back to New York, legal fees, and funeral costs. The page has already raised over $137,000 of its $150,000 goal.
Before his tragic death, Realbuto had graduated with honors from St. Bonaventure University and chose to pursue volunteer work in Washington, DC with the Capuchin Franciscan Volunteer Corps. The program places volunteers in underserved communities, teaching them to live on small stipends while residing in a communal home. Realbuto was assigned to Don Bosco Cristo Rey High School, where he worked with at-risk students as part of a work-study program.
The New York native had dedicated his post-graduate life to making a positive impact in disadvantaged communities. His untimely death has left a void in the lives of those he sought to help. If you are interested in contributing to the GoFundMe or learning more about Ryan Realbuto’s life, you can find the page through the link provided.