Thousands gather at candlelight vigil for murdered child, Hailey Owens

After a horrible week for members of Springfield MO., a candlelight vigil was held for slain 10-year-old, Hailey Owens.

On Saturday night, thousands of people gathered and marched to remember Owens, USA Today, reports.

“Tonight is about Hailey, not the crime,” said Angel Boeddeker, a resident of Springfield who handed out yellow ribbons for marchers to wear.

Boeddeker’s one request was that people not talk about Craig Michael Wood, the man accused of murdering and kidnapping the child. Recently, the former teacher and middle school football couch pled not guilty for her murder.

During the march, people sang “This Little Light of Mine” and changed the words to “This is Hailey’s light, I’m going to let it shine” while her family clung close and sobbed.

Mayor Pro Tem Jeff Seifried spoke shortly to the crowd and wore a purple tie in honor of young Hailey.

“There are no words to describe our community’s broken heart,” he said. “There are no words to describe our frustration. The unthinkable has happened in our community.”

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