ITHACA, N.Y. — The family of slain Ithaca College student Anthony Nazaire said Monday’s arrest of Nagee Green for second-degree murder was a step forward on their path to healing.
“It won’t bring Anthony back,” said Channelle Nazaire, the victim’s cousin. “Another person will not have to endure the pain that we have.”
Anthony Nazaire died after he was stabbed multiple times just before 2 a.m. at Cornell University on Aug 28. Another stabbing victim was airlifted to a hospital and survived his injuries. He was later released.
Nagee Green, 23, is being charged with second-degree murder and second-degree assault in connection with both stabbings. He pleaded not guilty to the charges in Ithaca City Court Monday night and is being held without bail at the Tompkins County Jail.
Anthony Nazaire’s sister, Kiara Nazaire, 24, said that the family wasn’t sure what to think about the nearly three month investigation by Ithaca police. But she said the family is feeling “at peace” with fact that there is a chance for justice in the case.
She said the family didn’t know what to expect, but feared that because of the length of time spent investigating, that it could have become a cold case.
Related: Man charged with Cornell murder pleads not guilty to charges
In the months since Anthony Nazaire’s death, she said the family has been trying to cope.
“It hurts, but it’s a process, step-by-step,” she said.
Channelle Nazaire said she plans to come to court proceedings if the case moves forward to trial.
“We’ve been praying and praying and praying for closure,” she said. “I hope he gets the maximum about of years that they can offer..”