This is a work of nonfiction, a story focused on River Phoenix. It is pretty much a memoir.. The author is reflecting on a past encounter with River Phoenix and is left wondering if he could have made a difference. I ended up sending the author an email and he actually responded back. I had hoped for more details that he could share, but he said what's in the story is all that he remembers clearly... and what you'll read will be confirmation of the River we all know and love.
I would have cut and paste, but it's a long story. A good read
http://www.newmillenniumwritings.com/Issue15/nmw15-nonfiction-Robert-von-Stein-Redick.html