HAMMOND, La. — Hundreds gathered Thursday night at Cate Square Park to remember three Southeastern University students who died in a car crash early Monday morning.
The candlelight vigil saw attendees dressed in blue and yellow, lighting candles and sharing tributes for Carmelo Riley, Brian Smith II, and Tyrell Yates-Robertson. Billie Delacerda, a friend and co-organizer of the event, expressed the community's desire to honor the students' impact.
The vigil included hand-decorated candles, photo displays, and flowers, which were later presented to the families of the victims. Attendee Reagan Bolin reflected on the profound loss, emphasizing the void left by the trio.
Tyrell Yates-Robertson's mother, Tyree Lewis, addressed the crowd, thanking participants for their support and urging them to celebrate her son's life rather than dwell in sorrow.
Authorities confirmed that the crash is still under investigation as of the latest updates from state police.