Candlelight Vigil Held in Memory of Jahlil Clements - Beckley, Bluefield & Lewisburg News, Weather, Sports

Candlelight Vigil Held in Memory of Jahlil Clements

  • Local NewsLocal News

  • Wednesday, May 22 2013 7:16 PM EDT2013-05-22 23:16:09 GMT
    A West Virginia senator who's long pushed parents, coaches and communities to help protect young athletes from concussions is now sponsoring federal legislation to set safety standards for helmets. U.S.
    A West Virginia senator who's long pushed parents, coaches and communities to help protect young athletes from concussions is now sponsoring federal legislation to set safety standards for helmets.
  • Wednesday, May 22 2013 7:09 PM EDT2013-05-22 23:09:00 GMT
    It was a special day Wednesday for children and faculty at the Mercer County Early Learning Centers as they got special visitor. "I've never been down to the southern part of the state that much as a
    It was a special day Wednesday for children and faculty at the Mercer County Early Learning Centers as they got special visitor.
  • Wednesday, May 22 2013 7:04 PM EDT2013-05-22 23:04:23 GMT
    Gov. Earl Ray Tomblin is offering West Virginia's emergency response resources to Oklahoma officials following this week's deadly tornado. Tomblin said Wednesday he spoke with Oklahoma Gov. Mary Fallin,
    Gov. Earl Ray Tomblin is offering West Virginia's emergency response resources to Oklahoma officials following this week's deadly tornado.

Friends and family lit candles in memory of Jahlil Clements.

 The theme was for loved ones to reflect on what they call the heroic manner in which Jahlil's life was taken.  Police say the boy was struck and killed on Interstate 77 last month while waving down a car, after his mother was attacked by her boyfriend, Ethan Chic-Colbert.  For some, it was difficult to say goodbye.

 "I mean it's disappointing, but he's a hero to all of us and he did what he had to do," said his cousin, Letisha Carter.   

 Family members say 11-year-old Jahlil was someone they'll never be able to forget.  He'll always be remembered for his infectious laughter.

 His grandmother, Treva Woodson, said,  "Jahlil was all about smiles.  He was just a happy child all the time.  I mean it was just his character.  He was just a happy child all the time. 

 A personality that will be missed greatly by those that knew Jahlil...They say his legacy will not be forgotten any time soon.

 Relatives of Jahlil Clements want this vigil to be a wake up call to anyone in a relationship in which they feel threatened or unsafe. 

 Friends and family say goodbye to a child they consider to be a hero.