In the early hours of July 15, 2023, local bike legend and ray of sunshine Dzhoy Zuckerman was murdered. Dzhoy was a friend to all who knew them, a parent to their child, and a deeply loved partner to Cathryn Smith.

Dzhoy moved to the United States when they were 7 years old. They made DC their home and brought a smile to the faces of anyone who met them. Dzhoy started a circus club on Sundays in Malcolm X Park to share their love of juggling with friends. They volunteered with DC Bike Party, worked as a bike mechanic, and eventually started working full time as a bike messenger.

Whether or not they were on their bike, Dzhoy was always decked out in purple. You could hear them before you saw them, with a voice that could fill any room and a joyful laugh that could be heard from miles away.

Dzhoy was one of a kind. They are sorely missed already, and their loss will reverberate for years to come.

In the immediate aftermath of their sudden passing, I am raising to support their partner Cat as she gets her feet back under her. She is asking for funds to cover rent on the apartment she shared with Dzhoy, as well as day to day living expenses while she is grieving and unable to work. All money received from this fundraiser will go directly to Cat.

Thank you for supporting Dzhoy's memory.