Moose The Dog's Memorial Prospect Park Tree Planting Set For May

PROSPECT PARK, BROOKLYN — A Prospect Park tree will keep the memory of Moose the dog — who tragically died after an attack in the park — alive hundreds of years into the future.

Moose's owner Jessica Chrustic told Patch that a bald cypress — a tree that lives 600 years — will be planted during a May 5 ceremony.

"All will be welcomed" at the planting, which will be held 11 a.m. in the Third Street Playground near Litchfield Villa, Chrustic said. She said it'll be a happy event that honors her beloved Moose and the support the community has displayed through the months since his death.

"It would be just nice to have a place in the park to remember Moose and have a reprieve in the park and build new memories that are happier,” she said.

Chrustic added, "Pets are very welcome to join the ceremony.”

The ceremony follows a successful fundraiser organized by one of Chrustic's neighbors last month. Chrustic said she learned this week from parks officials when the planting would take place.

Moose and Chrustic walked to Prospect Park every day from their Park Slope home, and reveled in its peace and tranquility.

But that was shattered Aug. 3 when an unhinged man beat them both with a stick. Moose died of internal injuries days later and Chrustic has pushed the NYPD to engage on an unsuccessful — and controversial — hunt for the man, who has been a threatening presence in Prospect Park before and after the attack.

The hunt for the man hasn't just been frustrating for Chrustic, but dangerous. She was attacked by him a second time Oct. 21 after she said she followed police instructions to follow him, so he could be identified and arrested.

Chrustic said police have told her the case is still open, and the man has not been brought to justice.

Until then, Chrustic said she hopes the long-lived tree and ceremony honoring Moose will be held her, and the community, find some peace.

"I’ve just been really moved by the incredible outpouring of support and generosity," she said.