Mary Capozzi passes away at 78

BUFFALO, NY (WIVB) - Her son spent 22-years wrongly imprisoned but Mary Cappozi never gave up hope.

This morning, her family is mourning her death.

Family members tell News 4 Mary Capozzi passed away Sunday morning after a long illness. She stood strong while her son Anthony spent nearly 22 years in prison for raping two women, crimes which he didn't commit. DNA linked the crimes to Bike Path Killer Altemio Sanchez.

Mary Capozzi often visited her son in prison praying one day he would be free. The day came in 2007 and Anthony Capozzi's release from prison gave his mother and family reason to celebrate.

Family members issued this statement:

Our family was at her side in her final moments. Mom will always be know best for her devotion to our family, unwavering faith, and her 22 year campaign to free her son Anthony from prison for a wrongful conviction. We express our sincerest thanks to the people of Western New York for their continued support and prayers for our family these past few years. We are truly blessed to be part of this community.

Mary Capozzi was 78 years old.

Funeral arrangements for Mary Capozzi have not yet been released.