Amphitheater in MLK Park named to honor Daniel Prude. Park is still named MLK Park

ROCHESTER, N.Y. — The City of Rochester has named the amphitheater in Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial Park in honor of Daniel Prude. The park’s name remains Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial Park.

It’s been more than two years since Prude died after being restrained by Rochester police officers. The amphitheater name is now “Daniel Prude Square” to honor what would’ve been Prude’s 44th birthday.

MLK Park also has a mural of Prude, created after Prude’s death was made public in September of 2020.

Mayor Evans released this statement:

“The City of Rochester will never forget Daniel Prude. His death reverberated across and beyond our region, and we will memorialize him and ensure his name is remembered.”

Rochester City Council Member Stanley Martin released this statement:

“Today we are able to honor the memory of Daniel Prude and, in doing so, begin a restorative process centered around this community’s ability to assist those in crisis. Daniel Prude did not die in vain. His death has challenged this community to rethink how we provide support to those experiencing mental health crises, expanded conversations on community investments, sparked policy changes and greater accountability when it comes to those, who, like Mr. Prude, all too often fall through the cracks.  And we still have much work to do.  Today’s naming of Prude Square at Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Park is another step forward in transforming our community.”

Prude died in March 2020. He was not breathing and had no pulse after he was restrained and handcuffed by officers.  He died in the hospital seven days later.