Grandy, known for his artistic wooden signs and metal flowers, arrived in Kyiv in late May, eager to contribute towards recovery efforts in the war-stricken area. He spent his time helping to clear rubble after attacks. His sister, Sietska Reed, shared that he felt a strong sense of duty and wanted to make a positive impact during his time in Ukraine.

Sadly, Fred Grandy was one of 28 victims of a significant Russian drone and missile strike that targeted various neighborhoods across Kyiv. The missile barrage persisted for over nine hours and caused extensive damage, particularly affecting a nine-story apartment building. Emergency services continued to work amidst the rubble, and the attacking forces maintained that they had accomplished all their targets.

The recent air assaults have intensified, posing a grave threat to the hopes of a ceasefire in the ongoing conflict. The United Nations reports that since the onset of Russia’s full-scale invasion in February 2022, more than 13,300 Ukrainian civilians have lost their lives, although the real number is likely higher. Grady's death marks a rare case, as he appears to be the first American civilian killed in an aerial strike in Kyiv, highlighting the far-reaching consequences of the war.