DANVILLE, Ill. (WCIA) — The Danville music scene is mourning the loss of one of their biggest fans.
Outside of the spotlight and away from the instruments, Chris Dyszkewicz often found himself among the audience, capturing moments on his phone. Anna Daniels, along with her husband Troy, frequently accompanied their friend.
“We just know that it’s not going to be the same when we all go out and see the bands,” Daniels said.
According to Danville Police, Dyszkewicz was cycling near Main and Buchanan Streets on Monday afternoon when he tragically lost control and fell into the road, where he was struck by a semi-truck.
“It has hit the community really hard since this has happened,” Daniels said. “A lot of us are still shocked and I think we will be for a long time.”
Dyszkewicz and his fiance, April, support the Danville music scene loud and proud, following their favorite bands wherever the songs take them.
“It was wonderful looking out into the crowd while I was performing and seeing him there, smiling and enjoying the music,” singer Samantha Ingram shared. “I can’t recall a show where [Chris and April] weren’t present. Even when we had shows over in Decatur, they made the drive all the way there to support us.”
Dyszkewicz’ claps and cheers from the crowd have fallen silent even since his death. His music community is left looking back at the countless moments he captured behind a camera.
“He was definitely our unofficial photographer, for sure, he was always taking pictures,” Ingram said. “He loved those memories, wanted to hang onto every possible memory he can get — he soaked up every minute of live music he could.”
The songs still play, but they’re not the same. Friends including Ingram and Daniels hope to live like Dyszkewicz — carrying on the spirit they came to love.
“He would want people to keep moving forward, live life to the fullest and just enjoy life, because you just never know when something is going to happen,” Daniels said.
One of Dyszkewicz’ favorite bands, Rock Posse, said they’re dedicating a song in his honor going forward.
On June 8, Rock Posse and other performers will host a benefit to raise money for Dyszkewicz’ fiancé as she continues navigating the loss. It’ll be at the Black Bear Bar and Grill in Danville from 1-6 p.m..
