Hundreds ride for justice for Petit fam

Cheshire, CT (WTNH) - Hundreds of people hopped on their Harley's today, joining in a Ride for Justice for the Petit family and victims of other violent crimes.

While most that ride don't know the victims, they were still shaken by the Cheshire Home Invasion crime.

"It is so close to home," said Stephanie Bezzerra of Hamden. "I tell my husband all the time that it could have been us, that could have been us."

But it was the Petit family; Jennifer Hawke, daughters Hayley and Michaela who were killed. And it was William Petit, the sole survivor of the attack, who established the foundation in his family's memory. Dr. Petit said this is about justice for his family and other victims who have seen their families shattered by violent crime.

"Not just the actual victims," said Dr. Petit, "it's the relatives, the extended family. It really affects generations."

Today marked the second annual Ride for Justice. Justice meant a death sentence for Steven Hayes and this ride comes in the midst of the trial of second suspect Joshua Komisarjevsky, re-enforcing why many are riding.

"Everybody is out here to support people that go through some bad things," said Julio Ruiz of New Britain.

"I hope justice does get served," said Bezzerra.