Monday, June 4, 2007

Hugues de la Plaza

Sunday May 25, 2008

Friends and Family would like to thank Karl Vick for the story in The Washington Post.

Frustration With San Francisco Police

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Monday May 5, 2008

Friends and Family would like to thank Armelle Vincent for the story in Le Figaro International.

La mort d'un Français en Californie, digne d'un polar

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Tuesday April 29, 2008

Jason Dearen, a reporter for the Associated Press, wrote a story a few days ago about French police coming to the US to aid the investigation into Hugues' murder. His story has been picked up around the world, including by the International Herald Tribune:

US-France-International-Whodunit

On behalf of all of Hugues' Friends and Family, Thank You Jason.

Also, for those of you in the region, we are organizing a March in June on the steps of City Hall and the SF Police department to commemorate the 1 Year Anniversary of Hugues's abrupt death and to demand justice for him and other victims. Please let us know if you would like to join.

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Tuesday April 1, 2008

Hugues' Murder on Fox National News Tonight

Tune in to Greta Von Susteren's show: On The Record
Tonight on FOX @ 10pm EST/7pm PST


FOX News, On the Record website

Greta, thank you for helping us gain more National news coverage on Hugues' case.





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Tuesday April 1, 2008

Friends and Family would like to thank Jaxon Van Derbeken for his front page story in the San Francisco Chronicle.

Mystery behind locked doors: Homicide or Suicide? Man's death a mystery

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Tuesday February 5, 2008

Dear Friends,

We are asking you to support a petition asking for justice for Hugues de la Plaza, a San Francisco resident found stabbed to death in his apartment June 2.

It is especially important that you give us your support by Feb. 12, as we will be testifying before the San Francisco Police Commission on Feb 13.

We have serious concerns about the way in which Hugues' murder investigation has been handled. Hugues was an ordinary person, special to few, unknown to many. Regardless, his murder - as well as the 253 other unsolved murders in San Francisco - deserves a thorough and complete investigation.

Please sign the petition below. Tell a friend.

Petition for Justice for Hugues de la Plaza

With thanks from the bottom of our hearts,
The Friends of Hugues de la Plaza.

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Thursday January 10, 2007

Friends and Family would like to thank G.W. Schulz for his SF Bay Guardian Blog Post.

Hugues de la Plaza's Autopsy Unveiled

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Wednesday September 26, 2007

Friends and Family would like to thank G.W. Schulz for his article in the SF Bay Guardian.

Cold case — The SFPD hasn't solved the homicide of Hugues de la Plaza — so now the French ambassador is getting involved

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Sunday September 2nd, 2007

Farewell From Burning Man

Keith and Jean-Paul road their bicycles to the Temple in the afternoon and posted photos of Hugues that I had brought (from Getanjeli). They took their time to find the best place and wrote very nice words on behalf of all of his friends.

I came to the burn with antique wood frames, Hugues Leapfrog guitar toy (working), and a tshirt from 'The Love Makers' that we bought together from Rasputin's back when he was living in Berkeley. We used to wear tshirts together, at the same time, at the numerous events like BM, Decompression, and Love Parade. I was given his tshirt by his parents. I can still smell his incredibly unique and strong scent.

Standing with Jen in front of the Temple with thousands listening to classical music and songs, hearing people all around sweeping back tears, I cried for a long time looking at an immaculate sky full of shiny stars. I thought about Hugues, of course, but not only. I imagined a scene between Hugues and Nicolas my lost son (April 5, 2000), twin if Anais, and how those two may have met and talked about me and life in general. So with those 2 above us came the Burn of the Temple of Forgiveness. What a spectacle! What a heat even from far away! I cried more and Jen constantly caressed me with warm friendly hands. I couldn't have done it without her. Some unexplected loud "Hollas" took place and it was phenomenal!!!!

Walking to the fire, I came across a father with his 2 year old son, Oscar. I gave Oscar the guitar and he started playing with it-obviously content and happy. I gave it to him for the eternity. Then we walked around the fire and it was hot as hell. It was good, very good. I immediately threw the 3 wood frames in the fire, and they burned in seconds.

When the burn was over - meaning all of the aerial structure was down to a gigantic "brasier" - we walked toward it in silence. People were humming in the air some strange litanies. Praying. Sharing. Forgiveness.

I sat down and put Hugues' tshirt on my face, breathing through it and praying. I sent him some words and threw the tshirt on to the burning wood ashes. It was burned and I was relieved.

Watch upon us Hugues de la Plaza.

I love you and miss you tons every day,
Christophe

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Thursday August 28, 2007

Friends and Family would like to thank Anne Senges for her article in the France-Ameriques.

Mort suspecte d'un Français à San Francisco : la mobilisation s'organise



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Monday August 20th, 2007


We Need Your Help - Can You Please Call?

Two and a half months have passed since Hugues de la Plaza was murdered on June 2nd in his Hayes Valley apartment at 462 Linden Street in San Francisco. There has been very little movement on his case and Hugues' Family and Friends want those in power to be held accountable for the lack of urgency that has been assigned to his case. We need the San Francisco community to stand up and show concern for how the city is handling our homicide investigations. Can you please make a call or 3?

If you wish to voice your concerns, please call the following people/offices to let them know you are worried about how Hugues' investigation is being prioritized and that you are worried about the increase of violent crime in our city. The telephone numbers are listed below after a list of potential Talking Points.


Here's a statistic you could use:
From 2004 through August 2006, San Francisco had 253 Homicides; only one person was convicted. (This statistic comes from a Legislative Analyst's report commissioned by San Francisco Supervisor Ross Mirkarimi
)

How easy is it to get away with murder in SF? Very easy, it seems....

TALKING POINTS: (If you wish to use them)

1- The parents hired a private investigator and have turned to an international police force (French) out of frustration and despair. They do not believe the city of SF cares about their son's death. From what we have witnessed, they are right.

2- Two months after his murder, Hugues' email accounts have yet to be accessed, where we believe vital clues lay.

3- Two months after his murder, Hugues' cell phone records have yet to be accessed. They have no idea with whom Hugues talked to the night he was killed.

4- Two months after his murder, the the various online communities Hugues was a part of have not be accessed or understood.

5- Two months after his murder, the SFPD still waits for the results of DNA tests that could yield vital clues. The family has been told they may have to wait another two months.

6- Two months after his murder, the family is not convinced that the SFPD has done their due diligence in interviewing those who wish to be interviewed regarding Hugues' case. They were provided with ~60 names.

We believe a Top down approach will be the most effective approach. Please call those in power and Urge them to rethink how our city is handling our most violent crimes.... Please Urge them to give Hugues' investigation the attention it deserves.

PEOPLE TO CALL:

The Mayor: Gavin Newsom 415-554-6141

*Senior Advisor to the Mayor: Mike Farrah 415-554-5944

*Chief of Police: Heather Fong 415-553-1135

*District Attorney: Kamala Harris 415-553-1751

Deputy Chief of Police: Morris Tabak 415-553-1484

*Chief of Police Investigations: Capt Kevin Cashman 415-553-1481

Chief of Homicide: Lt. John Murphy 415-553-1145 (work) 415 850 5925 (cell)

President of the Police Commission: Teresa Sparks: 415-553-1667

MEDIA:
SF Chronicle Crime Reporter Jaxon Van DerBecken 415 777 7138/415-298-1051

KGOTV (ABC affiliate): 1-888-40-J-Team

KPIX 5: news tip line 415-765-8717

San Francisco Bay Guardian, ask for city or metro desk: 415-255-3100



Thank you All for your help, warm thoughts, and support.
-Hugues' Friends and Family

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Monday August 13th, 2007

Hugues at Burning Man this year









As you know Hugues was a confirmed Burner and went to BM several times. We (so far Mark, Laurent, Keith, Sylvie, Jean-Paul, Jennifer) will install a shrine to his memory in the Temple with pictures, messages, and rubans. The Temple will be burned Sunday. We will put something from Hugues inside the MAN itself just before the BURN.

I can't see a better send off for our dear beloved Friend.

You are all welcome to give us any messages, pictures, or art that you would like to be displayed.
Of course if you are about to go to BM please stop by and join our forces there.

Peace, Love and Green,

Christophe (Camp "Funkee Monkey" located at 9:00 & Habitat)
Mark (Camp "Snow Kone Solar" located at 7:30 and Desert)



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Monday August 6th, 2007

Friends and Family would like to thank Caille Miller (SF CHRONICLE) for her Editorial article.

A city that knows how ... to shrug - SF CHRONICLE Article


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Wednesday July 18th, 2007

Friends and Family would like to thank Mary Spicuzza (SF Weekly) for her article.

Who Killed Hugues De La Plaza - SF WEEKLY Article

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FRANCE - Memorial For Hugues

Friends of Hugues in Paris, who learnt just two days ago the news,
will join from around 8pm at Luis' this Thursday, June 21st, day of
the "Fête de la musique".

61, rue Molière
93100 Montreuil sous Bois
Métro Croix de Chavaux
Google Directions<------


For further info, or if you simply want to call us that evening, you can
reach
Alex: alxbox@gmail.com +33 613 943 082
Djibril: djibril.diakite@gmail.com +33 660 914 385.

SUPER 8 FILM " DRILLING" made by Hugues and friends in 1997
Bike ride around the Paris.

-vous trouverez "drilling" un film super 8 qu'on a fait il y a 10 ans avec
oogha...

SUPER 8 FILM "DRILLING" by Hugues and Friends - 1997

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NYC Memorial For Hugues

Please join us in New York to remember our dear friend, Hugues de la Plaza, on Saturday, June 30th, 2007, at 6pm.

We will hold a short memorial, which will be followed by fondue, chocolate, wine and lots of dancing to celebrate our love for Hugues. Any music, food, champagne, or other drink that people would like to bring would add to the festivities.

Hugues’ friends are encouraged to participate in the memorial—if you would like to speak, or have more creative ways you’d like to contribute, please let us know. We will be collecting photographs for a slideshow, and will put together an album that we will make available for everyone online.

683 Leonard Street (Herzog/Walsh)
Brooklyn, NY 11222
in Greenpoint, between Meserole Ave. and Calyer St.
G train to Nassau, or L train to Bedford
718 349 9130
Contact Amy at amyherzog@mindspring.com


------------------------------------------------------------------

In Loving Memory

Hugues de la Plaza

June 11, 1970 – June 2, 2007

Dear all friends of Hugues:

We - his mother, father, his grandmother, all of his family - would like to thank all of you for the many signs of sympathy that you have shown us.

We are infinitely touched, moved, appreciative of your support, your generosity. Once again, a thousand thanks.

We cannot believe that Hugues has left us: he is still here, with his charming smile, present deeply in our hearts.

He was good, generous, very, very, funny, sweet, and happy to be alive. He knew how to share his life with all his friends. But beneath his nonchalant appearance hid a character that could be single- minded.

In France, he had been a conscientious objector, as he did not wish to be placed in a situation where he would be asked to kill anyone.

When resolving conflicts, I have always believed in the effectiveness of non-violence. But, to be non-violent, one must be strong and be able to overcome fear.

Hugues practiced martial arts, French boxing and he had a black belt in karate.

He loved music, motorcycling, philosophy: the Stoics, the Epicureans, the Hedonists and, of course, the modern philosophers: Deleuze, Chomsky, Onfray. His heroes included Ghandi, Thoreau, Martin Luther King, Jesus, and the Buddha.

He loved cats: like him, they are soft, gentle, secretive, and have a taste for freedom.

He had anarchist and completely utopian ideas. He dreamt of an egalitarian society based on love, freedom, tolerance and responsibility. And only one way to attain this: education, education.

He loved America, Americans (above all, American women).

We were proud when he decided to adopt American citizenship. We personally owe a debt to America.

He was attacked by a thug, a man without conscience, consumed by evil.

But what is also awful is that this pain has been transmitted to me, his father,

I feel hatred in myself, and I will not have the strength to forgive what that he did to our son.

Hugues was a man. A true man.

---------------------------------------------------

Dear Friends,

Hugues' parents have arranged a wake for Monday, June 11th from 2pm - 9pm.

Location:
Sullivan Funeral Home
2254 Market St.
San Francisco, CA 94114
Phone (415) 621- 4567

The wake is open to all of Hugues friends.

*note: June 11th would have been Hugues 37th birthday.

---------------------------------------------------

Hugues Story To Air Tonight

KPIX TV (CBS) Channel 5
San Francisco/Bay Area
June 7th - News Clip
http://cbs5.com
You Tube

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The SF Chronicle has a short article on Hugues June 7th , 2007

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Hugues De La Plaza was a close friend to many here in San Francisco, CA. Hugues was senselessly taken away from us on June 2, 2007 in the early morning hours.

Hugues originally from France, moved to NYC and then to San Francisco where he lived for 4 years. He was a lover of music, motorcycles and life. He worked at LeapFrog.com as an Audio Lead.

Hugues was last seen at 2:15am on Haight Street (@ Webster St) en route to his home on Linden St (@ Octavia). His neighbors alerted the police after seeing signs of a struggle outside his home. He was found deceased at approximately 8:00 am, June 2nd with multiple wounds to his body.

Hugues's family (father, mother and grandmother) in France have been notified.

Hugues neighbors have encouraged friends and family to stop by and leave flowers, pictures, poems or candles. Please feel free to stop by Linden Street (between Laguna St. & Octavia St). It is very important that we all support and make sure that Hugues crime is not forgotten and investigated to the fullest

If any body knows of or has heard anything regarding this incident, please help us and respond by contacting the numbers below.

We will never forget you and you are dearly missed!


SF Homicide: 415-553-1145
Homicide Tip Line: 415-575-4444 (100% Anonymous)
Lead Detective in Hugues Investigation - Antonio Casillas: 415-553-1149



THIS IS VERY IMPORTRANT. !!! PLEASE CONTACT THE PRESS !!!
SF Chronicle (SF Crime Beat Editor)
SF Weekly
SF Guardian
The Examiner
Kron 4
KGOTV (ABC affiliate): 1-888-40-J-Team
KPIX 5: news tip line, 415 765 8717

67 comments:

Unknown said...

I only had the pleasure of meeting you once in the back of Neil's car. You were all trying so hard to make me come out for sushi and I had some stupid work excuse that made me stay home.

I sorely regret not joining you for dinner and getting to know you that night.

Respect and blessings to your family and may you rest in peace.

Miro

selector.dub.u said...

So sorry to hear about this. I send my prayers out to his family and friends for the loss.

Blessings and peace to your family and friends.



R.I.P.

warren

Erik's birthday said...

Hugues,

Ca faisait 1 an que l'on travaillait ensemble et que l'on se voyait quand tu n'etais pas loin ! Bretonne comme toi, on parlait de nos souvenirs de vacances en France, de nos tattouages... de la France. Quand je ferme les yeux, je te vois sourire. Je t'ai toujours connu ainsi. Souriant, meme quand tu ralais.

Repose en paix.

Tu vas me manquer,

Christophe Schuhmann said...

Je te pleure mon ami. Veille sur nous de la ou tu es maintenant au milieu des anges. Reposes en paix Hugo.

k.o.d (keith) said...

I barely knew you. The first and only time I saw you was at Sylvie's birthday party 3 weeks ago. We did not talk beyond "hello". You seemed like a gentle dreamer. Laurent remembers you DJ'd for us...

Wherever you are, may you be free form harm, may you dwell in boundless love, equanimity and joy.

A bientot,

Keith

Deborah C. Cohen, PE said...

Hugues and I went camping last weekend (memorial day) up at Clearlake... A self-proclaimed city kid, he told me he hadn't been camping in a couple years... He had a wonderful time - swimming, hiking and canoeing. He seemed to enjoy every little bit of nature - admiring the ants busy at work on the hiking trail, the moss growing on the trees, the warm sunshine on his bare chest. That night we built a huge bonfire - he said he loved fire - he baked corn and potatoes, ate lots of his beloved cheese and chocolate, and drank his favorite unfiltered sake. The next day we went on an epic canoe trip and he had an absolute blast - jumping in the water, diving perfectly off tall piers, making fun of the birds and wildlife, splashing excitedly with his paddle. He was completely absorbed in enjoying the nature around him; enjoying life. That was his way.

He also reminisced about his wild camping trips with his parents and cousins growing up. He told me of the volleyball games and the long treks to get food... He told me how much he loved his parents and grandmother and how he was sad he hadn't seen them in so long. He wanted to go visit them soon...

On the ride home I complemented his driving and he told me "I don't want to die young"...

Hugues, I'm so very glad your last weekend was so fun for you. I'm glad we had such good talks and I was able to share in some of your last adventures. I'm glad I could give you that. I just wish I had hugged you more... and I wish I could have said goodbye before you died... So wherever you are, please know that getting to know you was very special to me... You are an inspiration on how we need to live each and every day to the fullest. I won't forget you, my friend.

Much love always,
Deborah

Marin said...

I have only known Hugues for a short time, but in that short time I truly observed what an incredible soul he was. He had this ability to float through lives and scenes and just be. He was so easy going, so friendly to chat with, and it was always a pleasure to hang out with him. You could really tell he knew what he liked and made a point to enjoy it.

On Friday night he gave me a kiss on the cheek, and it feels so sweet to be able to carry that with me.

Hugues, I can't fathom what you had to go through after you left us that night. I only hope that wherever you are now you are free from all of it. You are deeply missed already, and I want you to know that we are doing everything we can for you. My heart goes out to you, your family, and your loved ones.

You will not be forgotten,
Marin

Samuel K. Ackerman said...

I am so sorry. I live a few doors away. Was out of town over the weekend but learned of this today. If anyone in the neighborhood wishes to discuss organizing any type of collective response, perhaps even a collective neighborhood meditation in the Park on Octavia, I'd be very interested in joining others. Or if we need to patrol the streets with Air Horns and baseball bats in teams, I'd be up for that too. Want to do 'something.' My heart aches for his family. May peace be with you.

seemso said...

in the last month of '94 Hugues, Chris and I took a road trip from Illinois to the west coast. Chris and Hugues worked together at IRCAM in Paris at the time. after driving for a couple days through deserts and snow we landed on haight st. with visions of a colorful party that must be in our future. it was two days before new years and the dance spirits had followed Hugues and Chris from Paris. I knew we'd find THE Party!
finally after some prodding of a person behind the counter at a music store we scored - underground connections were made. a couple nights later we discovered ourselves at an SF spectacle full of earthlings warm and embracing of all. the grooves were fluid, the food and drink just right. the boys were cool and the girls were sexy. it was that night that we all three knew this would be our city one day.

the next day we made our way up the coast taking in the beautiful work that is mother nature. the subwoofer was bumpin good for over 7000 miles with the video camera documenting our epic journey.

on our way back down from Seattle we stopped at a beach somewhere in southern Oregon. it was midnight. Hugues and I were lit. there was only one thing to do. get naked and sprint into the Pacific. i'll never forget that run. i could hear him laughing as my periphery caught the moonlight bouncing off the dashing frenchman. the water was cold yet embracing. our dip was baptismal. it symbolized the desire to be free from our own pasts and to say hello to the other side of possibility.

Hugues possessed an unwaivering peace that he'll keep forever and ever and ever. . .

i love you Hugues. see you again some day buddy. . .

thx for being you and part of my life!

Ryan said...

Hey brother-

Such a good man. Peaceful, easy going, good hearted.

May you be well, may you be at peace, and may love enter whatever you do.

I am an old friend of Hugues who lives on the east coast- if anyone knows the details of the memorial service or funeral, please let me know.

Ryan
ryalt7@yahoo.com

Stephanie said...

i was so saddened to hear of yet another senseless death in my neighborhood, and reading the comments here about Hugues I am even more sad that such a warm light was snuffed. I would have liked to have known him. May he rest in peace. Hugs and love to his family.

aynne said...
This comment has been removed by the author.
NZ said...

I have been in contact with many of Hugues neighbors and loved ones who are in shock with the way SFPD is handling this case. I am in
shock that the police are leaning toward "suicide" in this case. I will not go into specific details but there is evidence that Hugues was hurt outside his home. I have learned that SFPD is suppressing details to the media about this crime. To this day there has been no mention of the crime in any of the papers or in the news. To this day the leading detectives have not returned calls to those friends that last saw Hugues alive.

I really hope this is a strategy in part of SFPD to find the real cause of Hugues death. I hope in the least that SFPD are in fact handling this
case with utmost care and detail. It is very hard for me to believe
they are…

Neighbors, friends and family want due diligence by SFPD. We want to
know what really happened to our friend Hugues.

PRESS IS THE KEY AT THIS POINT!

Please help us by calling the SF Chronicle (SF Crime Beat Editor), The Examiner or any other SF media that can spotlight this crime.

We love you Hugues and miss you!

Your friend,
Neil

aynne said...

I was so shocked and sad when I saw the fliers all over the neighborhood this morning.

I had exchanged a couple of emails with him but never met him in person.

I felt sick when I saw the photo and read what happened to him.

This is so tragic...
What is happening in this city?

I looked for something about this in the news and couldn't find anything.

I guess it happens more than we know.

My condolences to his family and friends on their loss.

Laura Gribomont-Garnier said...

Hugues,
Nous avons travaille 3 ans ensemble, dans le soucis constant de la meilleure qualite possible pour ces jouets que nous allions lancer sur le marche francais. On a souvent rigole des chansons que nous allions enregistrer...on changeait les mots, tu me chantais les melodies, tu me rassurais sur les rythmes et les chanteuses qui allaient rendre tout cela magique mais sans ton intervention technique - tout cela n'aurait pas ete possible. Toujours discret, tu aimais vraiment ton metier, tu en connaissais toutes les ficelles et cela m'impressionnait beaucoup.
Nous parlions souvent de notre amour pour la Corse et la Bretagne, deux regions si particulieres ou nous avons passe beaucoup de bons moments.
Je pense que tu as profite de la vie comme tu l'as pu.
Libre et reveur - c'est comme ca que je me souviens de toi.
Pas l'ombre d'une agressivite chez toi et je ne peux imaginer les terribles conditions dans lesquelles tu nous a quitte.
C'est intolerable, epouvantable.
Mes pensees vont a tes parents et a ta grand-mere - tu les aimais tant.
Je suis contente que tu aies pu tant voyager quand nous travaillions ensemble. Qui aurait pu imaginer que ton temps etait compte...
C'est avec beaucoup d'emotion que je te vois partir - je ne t'oublierai pas.

Laura

michel-scopitone-france said...

Hugues ,

quelle tristesse de ne plus te savoir parmi nous.
J'ai pendant 4 ans eu la joie de travailler avec toi et j' en garde de merveilleux souvenirs.
Des fous rires, des echanges musicaux autour d'une même passion qui nous à conduit a nous
rencontrer,

Nous partagions cette amour pour mallicorne....et la musique traditionnelle.

je garderai à jamais en mémoire nos échanges de mail et ton acharnement sur la conformité de ces maudits omf ( rires)
et autres retakes qui me manqueronts....


quand un artiste s'en va il faut le saluer.

Mais quand c'est trop tôt c'est terrible.

Michel Dupuis
Ton camarade de jeux.

Worldisc said...

I never knew Hugues but this is a senseless tragedy. I called the Chronicle's crime beat editor.

My condolences.

Unknown said...

Bless you, Hugues. I only knew you a short time but you left an eternal impression.

Jorge

Virginie f said...

It is so weird...Nous nous etions rencontres il y a quelques semaines et nous sommes alles boire un verre Place Pigalle ce vendredi. Nous avons parle de yoga, de vegetariens, de chats et de vie apres la mort...I guess you found out before me. Je t'ai quitte en te remerciant de ne pas etre un "flake" comme les Americains et en te disant que j'etais bien contente d'avoir un nouvel ami a San Francisco...Short and sweet. C'est vraiment trop con...many blessings to you and yours Hugues, Sat Nam.

Marin said...

I am so touched that everyone is coming together as a community in support of Hugues, the investigation, and this incredible tragedy.

Thank You for doing what you can to help, it really all adds up.

Please join us for the Vigil in his honor and memory on Friday night.

Much love,
Marin

NZ said...

Virginie f.

can you please contact me ASAP.

thanks,
Neil Z.

jujutek@gmail.com

Raul said...

This is horribly sad and tragic. A good man was taken away for no good Goddamn reason other than senseless violence. My heart goes out to his friends and family. I wish I could have known Hugues. He was loved and his memory will always be cherished by those he knew.

The situation in the Lower Haight is ridiculously being swept under the rug by the SFPD. There's a horrible criminal element on the corner of Haight and Webster that no matter how many cameras you're gonna put up, these scumbags will still find a way to cheat, steal, hustle, and even kill.

I live on Page and Webster and there's a TON of good people and kids that are super-rad, chill, and are sick and tired of hearing about this shit. Please keep us in the loop about some sort of vigil, march down Webster, or demonstration.

koalazirra said...

Hugues,
I thought you were so wonderful right away.
You intrigued and endeared me with your serenely knowing, sweet, and groovy demeanor. I considered you were a Prince amoung princes. I've only know you a few months but you made a big big impression on me.
Thank you for showing me your tatoo and turning me on to Blonde Redhead and for letting me know the best place to get chic skinny ankle jeans. I think of you when I listen to "23" and I have yet to meet anyone who can make brown jeans look so chic. I'll remember you and will keep it classy in your honor. :)
Jovialities aside, you were a treasure to those around you and I feel so fortunate we crossed paths. I am deeply saddened I won't get to know you more in this life and I am happy for those that were able to share history with you.

Rest in Peace Hugues
Love,
Kate

Anonymous said...

I was in the Bay Area for a 'business trip' last week-end. I Google-chatted with Hugues on Friday June 1st, as he was online. He told me about his recent trip to Buenos-Aires, he loved it there and his plan to move there within next 6 months. He proposed we should get together for a drink during the week-end: I didn't make it, I could not make it as stuck in the Peninsula..

I could say so much good things about Hugues, I don't have the strength today. We are going to be in shock for a very long time.

Jean-Ber

Anonymous said...

Hugues was such an amazing person-- it is comforting to read these messages, particularly as it seems impossible to understand or absorb what happened.

Hugues had many friends in NY, and we'd like to organize a memorial for him here sometime in the coming weeks. If you are interested in participating, please send me an email and I'll keep you updated as we solidify our plans: amyherzog@mindspring.com

We also spoke about collecting photographs and messages from his friends, both to incorporate into the memorial, and to assemble into some kind of album that we could send to his parents. If anyone, anywhere, would like to contribute to this effort, please contact me. We'd be happy to post this online for everyone to access as well.

With much love and sadness,
Amy

Siderak said...

I have no words that can express the loss I feel for my friend's completely senseless departure.

For a year and a half, I sat next to him at work. We ribbed each other constantly and took lunch together most days. We would go to the Broken Rack to play pool and talk shit. I cannot forget his incredibly ridiculous stance and how long it would take for him to shoot. Even though the loser paid for the game, the few times he lost, I had to pay anyway because he had been confident enough to not bring any money.
The truth is that as much as I tried to make him compete, Hugues never cared about winning. He was acutely concerned with the quality of his game and the value of his efforts. For him, satisfaction came from the idea that there had been some progress.
He had very particular tastes in dress, art, and food. I thoroughly enjoyed our clothes shopping jaunts. To us, none of it could hold a candle to Paris or NYC but we made due....
We shared a profound enthusiasm for Buenos Aires and I frequently laughed to myself about how much fun I knew he must be having when he was there. My best advice to Hugues when he asked me for suggestions of things to do there was "Just go!". He proved my hunch entirely correct as he had completely fallen in love with the place. After that, a good portion of our conversations became entertaining a plan to move there to Palermo or Soho. In heart, he already had.

I came to work Monday prepared to severely admonish him for not returning my calls on Saturday.
The rumours and eventual confirmation of his passing was squarely the last thing I expected.
It has not yet fit into reality for me.

Hugues,

I have been graced with the opportunity to know you. I can hear your voice as if you are standing right here. I am sure that you are free.

I offer my deepest respects to your family. May they know that you were loved and that we will never forget you.

-Ricardo

Lufe Lima said...

Upon my return from Rio on Tuesday I opened my email and there was a shocking message from Nicolas informing me of this terrible incident. Well, I still can’t believe the news… I haven’t seen Hugues for a while, but we worked together for over a year and he was one of the best people to have around. It’s hard to believe that someone would ever want to do him any harm, but the circumstances surrounding his departure make the suggestion of suicide preposterous and insulting. We should demand a quick and strong response from the authorities.

My respects to his family and close friends... I still remember the time I was introduced to Hugues and the good impression he made on me. That’s the image I will keep of him: A walking smile; a classy guy, always calm and cool and with the rare quality of being liked by everyone at his workplace.

Orion said...

As Hugues neighbor and friend, I too am in shock that this may be ruled a suicide. Last time we chatted, he had mentioned how much fun he'd had in Argentina and his desire to move to Buenos Aires. He was his usual smiling and charismatic self. And it is reassuring that so many people are, as I am, stunned at the notion of this possibly being called a suicide even though it is far more likely a tragic and perhaps unsolvable homicide.

I was awakened by the police knocking on my door Saturday morning, who then asked me about the blood on the stairs and stoop that led to Hugues door. I couldn't believe what I was seeing and shortly after that, my worst fear was confirmed.

I'll never be able to come home again without thinking of this tragedy and without remembering him and the laughs we've shared.

I miss him very much and my love goes out to his family and friends.

-Orion

Unknown said...

Hugues was one of the best and dearest friends I've ever had, and I miss him so much.
He possessed a gentle spirit with a very playful sense of humor and always cheered
me up when he was around. I met him years ago while I was living in France and we quickly
became friends. We took in the experience of the Paris music scene together, and took a two week road trip to England where we camped every night, even in London! I remember him bravely swimming in the cold and very choppy water along the rocky English coast. Hugues never seemed to be bothered by the elements.
I remember one time, much later on at Burning Man where he walked for miles all the way to the hot springs and back in the blazing hot sun. For him it was like walking across the street!

After an epic cross-country journey with Hugues and my friend Tim, I ended up moving to San Francisco
but still kept in contact with him. I was greatly delighted when he finally decided to move here himself
some years later, since I knew he would have a great and wonderful time.

The past few days so many memories of the times we spent together have been flooding through my head,
and there were so many good ones! I remember his kindness, his killer sense of fashion, his sense of adventure, his love of music, his gift for languages, his wry smile
which always made me laugh, and his love of people. His unfailing easy-going social nature is perhaps what I admired most about Hugues
, always curious to meet new people, and rarely failing to find a new
friend or two when out and about.

Goodbye Hugues. You've left a huge and lasting impression in my heart
and I will never forget you.

rhea & april said...

I never met Hughes, but I have seen him many times in the neighborhood. Those of us in the Lower Haight and Hayes Valley communites are like a small family, regardless of familiarity.

I work at the San Francisco Symphony on Linden a block down from Hughes' home, and have walked passed his front steps many nights, alone, but I will never make that mistake again.

I am deeply saddened and appalled by this senseless loss. It is obvious from the words of those who loved him most just how wonderful of an individual he truly was.

We *must* unite to bring justice to this crime. We must contact the media, we must expose the nonchalance of the SFPD, we must keep his memory alive. As a community, as friends, as deeply concerned citizens...

None of us should ever have to experience being harmed in what should be safe neighborhoods. It's time to clean this area up, in his memory.

May you rest sweetly and peacefully Hughes, and know those of us left in your tragic wake will not let this be forgotten.

-- April

g said...

I still remember vividly the first time I met Hugues de la Plaza - he pulled up on his motorcycle in front of our house. My new neighbor removed his helmet and even I, normally immune to the charms of a debonair Frenchman, had to grin in response to his smile, which was so radiant.
Despite our different work schedules, we managed to meet up for drinks a few times - I remember our bike ride to Tosca's in North Beach, and the view of the city from the top of the hill which we both struggled to climb - he on his old green Schwinn, me on my fixie. But Hugues didn't wanna take the easy way through the Stockton Tunnel - too boring for him!
Then there was the fondue party we hosted together - when Hugues stood beside me in Safeway, aghast at the things I was planning to add to my fondue. "But this is NOT FONDUE!"
Hugues was a wonderful neighbor, a great friend, and I am so grateful to have known him. He really knew how to LIVE.
The last time I saw him, he came around the corner on his motorcycle, and I nearly cut him off on my bicycle. My husband and I stood outside talking to him, joking about moving all together to Argentina, making plans to try to get together again soon.
Words cannot describe the horror and sadness I felt when I opened my front door on Saturday morning. Some part of me still refuses to believe he is really gone, that I will not hear his infectious laugh again, except in my memories, where his smile still shines brightly.
My heart goes out to his family and friends, and if there is anything I can do, please do not hesitate to contact me.
Hugues, you were a truly remarkable individual, and I will treasure your memory for the rest of my life.
- Gitanjali

emelle said...

For Hugues,

Such a gentle and freespirited person, you offered your easy smile and refinement to everything. We live in a world made poorer by your absence, without your kindness and fabulous ways.

A few years ago, you decided to teach yourself philosophy and asked for my help. I laughed (as I often did with you) and told you that you'd have to do me the favor of deciphering those rock star French thinkers, and we joked that those old guys didn't make sense in any language. I cannot make sense of a world that could lose a life so radiant as yours, how can such a peaceful man leave through violence? I can only take comfort in knowing that you now journey in connections beyond.

Your graceful and musical spirit sings on with us. I imagine you in the desert, riding your motorcycle, in the rain, in the sun, adventuresome and free, funny, so unique, and so peaceful.

With Love,
ML

kiki said...

I met Hugues back in 2003 while working for a couple of months at Leapfrog. A very charming, fun, life-lover person he was. It has been a great pleasure to spend time with him in Buenos Aires last April. He came down here, we saw each other 2 or 3 times, he shared with me his love about the life down here, and told me he was ready to move to Buenos Aires anytime. Luckily, while in Buenos Aires, we managed to have him obtained a job interview, and everything seemed to be moving in the right direction, for a possible position opening sometimes in August. I don't believe in suicide, this does not make any sense. He was so full of energy and desire to live, that I can't buy what's written in the newspapers.
I wish I could have a chance to see you again in Buenos Aires dear Hugues, so wherever you are now, please rest in peace. We'll miss you.

Kiki.

soundseas said...

Hugues,

I still remember the first day you started at LF. And the random phone calls inviting me to art events where you said there were 'cute ladies'. I had just shared sake with you a couple of weeks ago as we caught up and spoke about Argentina. You always had a smile and brought a smile to everyones faces. I hope we will soon find out who took that away from you, we all miss you.
-david

Julie said...

Je ne trouve pas les mots pour exprimer notre douleur.Hugues était notre cousin, le "grand" cousin.

Avec lui, toute une partie de notre enfance heureuse s'en va. Nous avons grandi ensemble. Chaque été nous partions avec Hugues et ses parents en Corse, faire du camping sauvage. On vivait comme des Robinsons, c'était l'aventure.On fabriquait notre campement, on se lavait dans les torrents glacés. Le soir nous jouions à celui qui roulerait le plus vite sur les dunes, on riait beaucoup, puis nous nous retrouvions tous ensembles, en famille, autour d'un grand feu de bois où l'on regardait le soleil se coucher et le feu crépiter.
A Paris, nous allions régulièrement le dimanche en forêt pour ramasser des champignons et pique-niquer.
Hugues nous apprenait à aimer et respecter la nature, la vie sous toutes ses formes. Tout ce qui était beau à ses yeux, devenait beau à nos yeux. Hugues nous a transmis cet amour des chats qu'il avait.
Il nous a donné le goût de la liberté, des voyages, l'envie d'aller s'installer à l'étranger. Nous étions fiers de notre cousin, il était un model pour nous.
Tu nous laisses tellement de souvenirs, tu nous manques, nous n'oublierons jamais ton sourire.

Toutes nos pensées accompagnent notre oncle François, notre tante Mireille ainsi que sa grand-mère Rose.

Julie, Ludovic et Stéphanie.

Ryan said...

I talked with Hugues friday night, the night of his death. Over a week before we had made plans to hang out that night, but he had forgotten and made other ones, the bastard. I said no problem, I would be back in town for most of august and we could hang then... he said that would be good.

He had told me earlier how much fun he had in argentina, how he loved the lifestyle and wanted to move there. I have known him for 5 years, and as all of his friends know, he was a happy, laid back, take life easy kind of guy.

I am personally concerned that the investigators in this case seem to have an emphasis on suicide as the cause of death. There is no doubt in my mind that this was not a suicide. To wrongly place a suicide label on a homicide would be a terrible insult to the memory of Hugues, to family and friends, as well as to the neighborhood and city.

There have been a number of homicides in SF in the last week, and I know that the department has a heavy workload. I strongly encourage people to call or email the SF supervisor of Hayes Valley, Ross Mirkarimi, to ask him to ensure that the homicide department has the resources and support to fully investigate this case in particular and all homicides in general. He can be reached at

415-554-7630
Ross.Mirkarimi@sfgov.com

Ryan said...
This comment has been removed by a blog administrator.
Unknown said...

The memorial on Friday was well attended and it has continued to build awareness of this tragic event in the neighborhood. I hope Hugues friends will continue to put pressure on the media and police to investigate this case properly.

I have some photos from Friday, if you would like a digital copy of any of them, please contact me at : dan.parham@gmail.com

Unknown said...

Hugues,

Ta disparition est si brutale et violente, j'ai même du mal à croire à ce qui a pu se passer...

Sache que je garderai de Toi le souvenir d'un garçon charmant, calme, optimiste et vraiment généreux. Mes pensées vont à ta famille qui, j'espère, trouvera le courage de traverser cette épreuve.

Repose en paix Hugues.

Céline

Unknown said...

Nous avons été bouleversés et peinés d'apprendre la mort de Hugues. Nous sommes des amis de longue date de François (Hugues' dad) ayant travaillé dans la même société depuis les années 70, et nous parlions souvent de nos fils respectifs du même âge.
Nous avons eu l'occasion de rencontrer Hugues chez notre fils à Palo Alto, tous les deux s'étant établis aux USA et ayant sympathysé.
Nous avions beaucoup apprécié sa personnalité, sa gentillesse, son dynamisme, sa joie de vivre.
Son souvenir nous restera toujours présent, et nos pensées vont vers Mireille, François et sa maman.
Monique et Jean-Louis

Sooz said...

I met Hughes on November 23rd, 2005, dancing to Joy Division. I remember bringing a playful smile to his face when I tried to reiterate his name wrong for the 4th time or so. The reason why I remember this evening and date so vividly is because this evening my purse was stolen from the bar we were hanging out at. Even though Hughes did not know me well, he stayed with my friends and me after closing to try to find my bag, which I didn't and then came with me to make sure I got home.

We remained I guess you’d say peripheral friends since then and have also ran into each other randomly on occasion. The times we spent together were memorable and pleasant. Hughes had a mellow, sweet and warm demeanor that made him comforting to be around. I loved his razor-sharp sense of style and impeccable taste in music. I know that he had a sense of adventure since I remember getting messages from him telling me about his visits to Europe and Argentina. He also told me about a recent camping trip he had planned.

In the last few weeks Hughes and I had a horrid game of phone tag playing out, but we were both determined to get together for music, drink or what have you. I’m so saddened that this did not come to fruition before this tragedy.

Ironically enough the last time I physically saw Hughes, I was walking alone in the night, somber and heart wrenched from the loss of a good friend in February. He recognized me as he was riding his bike down Valencia Street, so we chatted and I told him about how I just got back from a friend’s funeral and was sad and mentally at loss. He was sweet and offered gentle words.

Every time I met with Hughes he had a sparkle in his eye and a smile that I could tell he was trying to restrain. I definitely had a crush on this man. I wish I could’ve seen his smile again before he was ripped away from this place so offensively.

What’s happening to this city? I’m not sure I should walk alone at night anymore. What kind of place is this, when someone minding their own business quietly and peacefully going their own way is violated so horribly?

I refuse to believe that he took his own life. This does not add up at all. I don’t know any of Hughes close friends so I don’t have anyone to talk with about this situation. Please reach me if anyone is working towards any collaboration towards making sure the police thoroughly investigate this crime.

The world will be a darker shade of grey without you Hughes, I’m sorry you had to endure such pain. I will not forget your smile. Please rest peacefully.

Yours,
Susie Mckinnon

Anonymous said...

I knew Hugues chiefly by the company he kept; he had an array of smart, generous, and kind friends here in New York. My one telling encounter with him was on the subway: usually when one sees an acquaintance in New York on the platform after a long day of work, one nods hello and seeks an excuse to slip into another car. Not Hugues. I saw him on such an evening, and he struck up a conversation with me. A wave of panic overcame me: how could I make twenty minutes of conversation with a man I hardly knew after a long work day, the gym, and a harrowing grocery-shopping experience? But we did talk, and, after what seemed like seconds, our subway ride was over: I'd had a fun, engaging, and pleasant train ride that had put me in a good mood again--all because of Hugues's refusal to adopt this New York practice and his insistence on a civility that betrayed, no doubt, his French upbringing. I have, years after this encounter, continued to recount the story as an example not only of Hugues's character but also of how very simple gestures can alleviate the asocial habits and stressful aspects of living in a city. I will be more mindful to put his example into practice.

Deborah C. Cohen, PE said...

Would someone be able to set up a photo-sharing space for us? I don't know how this would work, but I would love to see any photos of Hugues that people are open to sharing.

Deborah.

Marin said...

I am happy to collect photos and post them on this forum. Please send any and all photos you would like posted to me, Marin:

wonderwomarin@yahoo.com

Christophe Schuhmann said...

In loving memory:
http://www.flickr.com/photos/tranquilitude/sets/72157600339863611/

SamSupa said...

I met Hugues around Christmas and since then I always had to smile greet him in enspanol and yell his name out loud. You where always in good spirits and always smiling that big smile. Even when you went to BA you hit me up for any info I had from my Argentine homies about places to go and things to see. I am so glad I got to met you and spend time with you. My thoughts are with you and your family and friends.

Jeanie G. said...

Dear Hugues,

My heart goes out to your family for the terrible, unfair loss of your life. I feel so lucky to have had the chance to know you, and to have spent as much time with you in NYC as I did.
I remember your uncanny ability to commune with cats, your crazy gym outfits, your wonderful willingness to engage in political and intellectual conversations (even if you never wavered your position) and your gentle and kind manner. I appreciated your wacky sophistication, if there is such a thing, and your unbending individuality. You were a truly special man and I'm so sorry we lost touch--more than ever now that you are gone.
Hugues and I worked in NY together in 2003, and I was roommates with his girlfriend at the time, so we saw a lot of each other. He called me "the funny girl," which was quite a compliment. It was a gift to have known him. I treasure my memories of him.
Love, Jeanie

gabriel said...

I am Gabriel. Melissa's friend from Italy. We spent a lovely time together in Rome, besides the fact that we were together at a Restaurant while 9/11/2001 was happening in New York. We didn't keep up writing but heard about you from common friends.

I am shocked and almost speechless by this terrible news.

Lots of hugs and love to your family and friends.

Gabriel

Amanda said...

The loss of Hugues is horrible, it is incredibly sad and tragic and I am still having trouble accepting that it is really true. I had not seen Hugues in 4 years, since he left New York and I always had a secret hope that he would move back. I enjoyed having him in my circle of friends. I have many fun memories of Hugues but my favorite ones are of sharing food. Like making him cheese fondue on his birthday, which we (my husband Erik and myself) did on at least one occasion. We had so much fun enjoying the fondue, the wine and Hugues company. Then there was the time we went apple picking on a particularly hot September Saturday. Melissa and Hugues on his motorcycle and me behind Erik on his. We spent a wonderful day picking apples in the country and when we returned to the city Hugues taught us to make tarte tatin. Although he did like the way it came out and complained about our cookware. I will never forget the time he made us the traditional buckwheat crepes of Brittany and a mixed salad of herbs with goat cheese dressing, “I like lots of sauce” he said as he whisked the ingredients together.

As I look through my photos is occurs to me just how often Hugues was there and how much he shared with us, all the birthdays, Christmas’, New Years, 4th of Julys, my wedding. His presence always had a calming effect on me, which is unusual and notable in a city like New York. I am so glad that he had a group of friends in San Francisco who loved and enjoyed him as much as we did in New York.

My sympathies go out to Hugues’ parents and Grandmother, I cannot imagine the depth of your loss only because I knew how special Hugues was. I also send my thanks and love to Melissa for bring him into our lives. I am a richer person because of him.

With love and sadness,
Amanda

winimc said...

Each day since that morning your blood was found upon the stoop, you inside, I have searched the papers for news of you and of why. Something is not right in the world. You are gone. And when every day there would be nothing written, no google search match for your name, I would feel so angry. You matter. Stop the world, stop the presses, something has happened that is horrifying and inconceivable. Hughues is gone. And it's not as if we never talked about such a possibility - you, with your consideration of the world and its possibilities, were frank about unpredictable death. Such consideration was why you'd ride motorcycles or climb to the top of a dead redwood tree, snapping limbs purposely as you ascended. Such consideration was why you drank green tea and ate so well, ate for health and taste. I always admired your practical hedonism, your focus on pleasure and long life...
It has been at least a year since I've seen you, if not longer. Seeing you today at the wake was not seeing YOU. Your face, so drained and disfigured by your absence, is not what I want to remember. I will hold onto what came before this - all the joy and openness, judgment, confusion, sorrow, your wild dreams, like the one of performing magic tricks with laundered shirts in a parking lot in Mongolia, your search for art and culture, your vibrant, contained grace. I will remember your face in life, sleeping and awake, so very beautiful...

Wini

Unknown said...

Message de Jacqueline Poitrenaud,

Cher François,
Je suis atterrée par l'affreuse nouvelle. Bella et Roger que j'ai prévenus se joignent à moi pour te dire combien nous pensons à Toi, à Mireille et à lui. Nous vous souhaitons tout le courage possible dans cette terrible épreuve.
Je t'embrasse
Jacqueline

BrandNewMe said...
This comment has been removed by the author.
BrandNewMe said...

Dear Hugues,

As many before me here have said, what has happened to you is incomprehensible and I am deeply saddened by the news. When I was first introduced to you as Melissa's new love interest, I was wary for her. She was vulnerable and you were handsome with sexy accent. I was protectve over my friend too often scorned that you might be another looker added to the list of people who let her down. But your beautiful brown eyes, sweet smile and cool demeanor were only the surface of a complex human being that I am vary happy to have known and spent time with. Over the years that we new each other you uncovered a gentle, caring person, inquisitive by nature, intelligent and unaccepting of the status quo.

I am glad that I got to see you in December when I visited San Francisco. I had never been there and you suggested as my first touristy thing to do going to Twin Peaks. My first night in SF, Melissa drove us up the curvy road to the most beautiful spot in the city. You told me how it was one of your favorite places in the whole city and when we got there I knew exactly why. On that chilly evening we looked in awe and then we warmed bellies at Blowfish with your choice hot sake and sushi followed by cocktails at the Clift hotel. That was a great night that I much needed after working long hours away from home. It was good to spend time with friends in an unfamiliar city.

I am glad that you showed my your San Francisco, the city that in four years you grew to love and call home. I am also glad for the times we shared in New York discussing semiotics: the study of signs and symbols as elements of communicative behavior; the analysis of systems of communication. I wish the SFPD would look at this horrible event as a semitotician and evaluate all the signs they have received so that justice will prevail on this horrible tragedy.

Here are some fond memories that I would like to share from New Years Eve 2003 at my house in Brooklyn and at your send off to San Francisco on a hot August night.

http://homepage.mac.com/kathylando/PhotoAlbum17.html

If anyone else would like me to add images to this page, please email me and I can tell you how to add them.

I will remember you always with great fondness.

Kathy
kathylando@mac.com

Unknown said...

Is there any more information from the police about the toxicology report ?

Melissa said...

dearest dearest Hugues,
I do not know how to reconcile myself to your death. Can you help me?
Writing this is so very difficult because words cannot express the depth of my sorrow.
I only hope you know how much I loved you and how much I am wishing that you are at peace, where ever you are. At this time, I wish I still believed in God, so that I could pray for you – much to your chagrine, I know. You hated my Roman Catholic upbringing.
I think of how when we first began to date how much I wished to be yours only, how much I wished to hear you thought me beautiful. How you kissed me so hard on the stoop of my Brooklyn apartment I thought I would faint.
Things ended, to my endless regret. I caused you pain. I will never forgive myself for that.
I wanted so much for you - children, a love to love you as fully as you deserved. I wanted grandchildren for you - ones to carry on your passion for life and compassion for all forms of life, your endless curiousity, your relentless search for justice and understanding, your creativity, your beautiful eyes, your smile that lit up so many. I wanted you to grow old and be able to pass on your wisdom.
I only wish you knew, as you lay dying, how much I love you, how much others loved you, how many people you touched, so that you could feel in your very last minutes of life that you were not alone. I hope you went quickly, without too much pain and fear.
My life will never be the same. You touched me profoundly while you were alive. You have marked me profoundly with your death. I miss you so very much. What I would give to see you once more.
You were my one true love. I thank you for all the things you gave to me.
All my love forever, Hugues.
Your Bunny

koalazirra said...

Friends, Neigbors,and Family of Hugues,
I am in the middle of creating a memorial video for Hugues which I began filming at the vigil. I want this to be for everyone, and I want to include any of your photos and videos you may want to contribute. I have saved some off of the sites posted here. Any additional ones, please let me know. I hope to finish this soon.
I will let you all know when it is finished.


Sending warmth,
Kate.geaghan@gmail.com

Karen said...

It is still sinking in for me.

I am thankful for this forum...to share my grief with others and to know how well is was loved...

I just heard from Hugues on May 31st...he congratulated me on passing the bar and said that if I was going to have a big party that he'd come and give me a big kiss...I want my kiss. Not these tears.

My beautiful "French Boy"
My disastrous tango partner
My unfailingly sweet friend

kisses. k.

Unknown said...

Walking home in the lower haight I smiled when I saw those familiar eyes with big eyebrows. To see Hugues whose name I still have trouble pronouncing brought back memories of the first time we caught eyes and an evening at Rickshaw with a slow walk home. Upon reading the flyer and understanding a little more what has happened I am in a state of heartache , frustration and shock.

I have had friends mugged, pumeled by a hit and run driver, harrased, groaped and now murdered during the bar after hours in my neighborhood. It's so disheartening.

Hugues was so cool, I will remember him fondly and try to capture his spirit and love for passion in my heart always.

My condolences to his family and friends. I will always cherish how special his time hear was.

Sequoia Hax said...

wow. it's been a month and i'm still thinking about you, hugues, every day. but it's been quite an emotional trajectory. now when i think about you, i can actually smile. because of what a beautiful person you were. i confess: i had a crush on you. a little one.

i like to think that at any given moment, someone is thinking about you and smiling.

avec beaucoup d'Amour pour toi et ta famille...
*stephanie

Stephanie Sinclair said...

Hugues,

There is something so special about you. You are a wise soul whose warmth and kindness I felt touched and healed by. Truly, you defined the word caring. Your deep brown eyes communicated spirit and love.

When my father passed last spring you were right there with heart-felt condolences, so apologetic because I hadn't known you were away in Argentina, and this was why you hadn't returned my email.

I'm only now hearing about your passing two months later. I've never been much of a media person, and I'm sorry I missed the services held in your memory.

Since our birthdays were only two days apart I had wished we could celebrate the beginning of summer together over a glass of wine.

We had only just met, yet you were the kind of new friend who made me think we'd always be friends. Well, we always will be... in spirit. Angels are with you, Hugues.

Blessings,
Stephanie

Deborah C. Cohen, PE said...

I finally got the Lovemakers album that you recommended. I've been dancing around my room all week thinking about how damn fabulous you are. You are missed...

Anonymous said...

Indeed, thinking about Hugues everyday. How painful...

Any progress on the investigation??

Jean-Ber

Anonymous said...

I am in shock. I have heard tonight the news from a friend about Hughes' death. I know Hughes back in 1991-1995. We went to the same university and later we lived in the same block opposite the Pere Lachaise. We had good time, parties, going to the "marche aux puces" of Montreuil. At the time Hughes was growing his LP collection. Everytime we visited him, he was showing proudly the last LPs he acquired. He loved music.
Last time I saw him he made up his mind going to US. I was myself leaving Paris as well.
I kind of hopped we would meet again. Unfortunately it won't happen.

C'est peut etre un peut tard mais je voudrais transmettre mes sinceres condoleances a sa famille. J'espere que l'on trouver a ce qui s'est passe. C'est incroyable que la police soit si inefficace.

Je garde en memoire ton beau sourire et cette etincelle dans tes yeux qui fesait ton charme.

Celine, Pays-Bas, Eindhoven
gribouille_333@yahoo.com

Anonymous said...

Chris said Leapfrog informed friends in common with Nix and Hugues. Not according to Nix. It was a neighbor of Hugues who knew someone who used to work where Hugues did, who knew someone else that knew Hugues (or something like that) who called someone who worked with Hugues, who doubted the police notified his parents. She knew Nix's cell number and she called her. Two other people did, too. Nix called SF Police to confirm and then called his parents at 4am in France, knowing they had been informed because that's what the cops told (lied to) her. How Chris got his version of these events that do not agree with the Nix account is unclear. One person didn't inform her, three did!

Anonymous said...

A brief reunite in November 2006 isn't exactly what happened because she last saw him Jan. 1 2007. In fact, she moved back to S.F. to work it out with him in Nov. 2006. She tried to work it out with him several times while they lived out there, she says.
I cannot imagine, especially given the way she has behaved since his death, that her feelings for him simply switched off for good 5 months prior to his demise and that she really was happy he was dating. She wanted children for him! There are numerous contradictions in what she has said. Her actions, too, contradict statements she made. Most incredible, to me anyway, is her insistence that she was over him, that she was actually pleased he was pursuing others, without the slightest consideration for her. On its face that is incredible. She is devastated now 2 1/2 years after he is gone. She was happy he was dating? She was completely over him and incommunicado, but he was her best friend? He died on her watch? Who are the 20 people who can verify her whereabouts in Virginia? Why would the three who contacted her have her cell number? One of them called her believing it improbable the cops notified his folks? Why didn't one of them call the cops to see if they had contacted his parents? I don't believe Hugues was as interested in her as she wants to believe, or that she wants us to believe. Not at all. Just the opposite. He was so not into her. My opinions.

Anonymous said...

Dear Friends of Hugues,

Who was it who posted on June 4 2007 at 6:58pm from California that Hugues' parents had been notified?

Does anyone know?

Are you allowed to respond to questions from people who wish to remain anonymous?

Thanks.

Anonymous said...

Despite the "castoff" on the outside wall near the exterior steps attributed to knife withdrawl, it sounds to me like Mr. de la Plaza was jumped inside his apartment with the perpetrator approaching from behind, grabbing Mr. de la Plaza's wristwatch hand (hence the DNA) and using his right hand stabbing three times.This doesn't account for the perpetrator's method of entry or if the door knobs where ever swabbed for DNA. I apologize for this type of comment but homicide can happen any time, anywhere and for any reason. Don't be a victim.