MUMBAI: A motorcycle crash has claimed the life of Ryan Casullo, chairman of Music is Art.
Casullo was riding his motorcycle on Saturday night when he crashed into the rear of a box truck on the I-190 entrance ramp at Exit 8, Niagara Street. He was transported to Erie County Medical Center where he succumbed to his injuries.
The 34-year-old of Lancaster, N.Y, leaves behind a wife and two children. Casullo served as chairman of Music is Art for six years.
“Ryan came to MiA with grand visions of growth for the organisation and motivated us all to strive for greater things. We will surely miss his upbeat attitude, his love for loud guitars, and his willingness to give of himself for the benefit of others, he was truly a special person. We wish the best for his family and pray that eventually, in time, they may move forward proudly knowing the great man their father/husband was, and how he constantly strived to have a positive effect of the lives of so many here in WNY.” said Music is Art founder and Goo Goo Dolls bassist Robby Takac.
“For Ryan it was all about giving the next generation access to music, whether he was picking up a truck-load of instruments, helping our high school Battle winners find opportunities for exposure, or introducing us to new friends who could assist with our mission, he always had Music is Art in his heart and the top of his mind.” said Music is Art’s Executive Director Tracy Shattuck.
The cause of the crash is under investigation.
Music is Art is a not-for-profit organisation that is dedicated to exploring and reshaping music's cultural, social, and educational impact, and is supported by a number of programs and events. Founded in 2003 by Robby Takac- Goo Goo Dolls bassist and Buffalo resident, Music is Art operates through a board of directors, staff, sponsors and volunteers, as well as collaborations with several partner organisations.