Media Statement 6.21.21

On behalf of the family and friends of Daniel, the Daniel J. Hollis Foundation, Inc. would like to thank the many people who have reached out and shared their encouragement and well wishes over the last few weeks.  

Nothing about death is easy and the circumstances around a 19-year old’s senseless passing are even more difficult to manage.  For 628 days, our family had to live with the knowledge that someone had caused Dan’s death and the individual responsible was not being held accountable for their actions.  Our family was unable to talk about the events of that evening, speak with the friends Dan was with, or know what his final moments were like under the direction of the Suffolk County DA’s Office.  We have lived with countless unanswered questions on top of the grief of losing a son, brother, and friend to all. Thanks to the persistence and dedication of NCIS Special Agent Marcus Anders, the investigation into what took place in the early morning hours of September 28, 2019, and the people who were ultimately responsible for Dan’s death continued.  Over the last two weeks, the details of that investigative work came to light during the General Court Martial proceedings for Samuel B. London.  After six days of witness testimony, the jury convicted London on the charge of Article 119.2 Manslaughter – Involuntary.  On Friday, June 18, 2021, 628 days from the time that Dan was struck in the head as he was trying to prevent an altercation, our family was able to speak about Dan and the impact his loss has had on us all.  After several hours of deliberation by the military judge, Samuel London received his sentence of 65 additional  months confinement (having been in pre-trial confinement since September 2020), dishonorable discharge, and loss of pay.  

Our loss remains – Daniel will not return to us in this life.  The conviction and sentencing of the person responsible for his death is of small consequence to the loss we feel every single day, however, London’s conviction and sentence relieves some of the anger and frustration associated with unanswered questions and lack of accountability for the aggressors.  We choose now to focus on Daniel and his light and his positivity.  We will continue the work of this foundation to provide opportunities to young people to support their community, foster healthy competition, and explore the world around them.  We do not wish to be contacted for further comment regarding the General Court Martial, the investigation, or the convicted.  We ask that you join us in celebrating Dan’s life, his goals, and the future good that will be done in his name.