9-year-old Azure Charles is remembered as the man who “lit up the room wherever he was”

NEW KENSINGTON, Pennsylvania (KDKA) – The New Kensington community gathered on Thursday for a candlelight vigil to honor the memory of 9-year-old Azure Charles.

Westmoreland County Attorney Nicole Zicarelli confirmed that officials are investigating his death as murder, saying that “he really died at the hands of another man.”

There is also a memorial to the boy who was found dead on Wednesday outside his home.

“Honor him, honor his life, the nine years we’ve been here on earth with us,” Tamara Jackson said.

Deep sadness filled the East Ken Manor area where Charles had previously lived and played.

“He was my best friend. It’s so tragic,” Tristan Olbert said.

“He was funny,” Sa’Mia Miller said. “He was always kind and always wanted to make new friends.”

There were many hugs and tears at the vigil on Thursday night

“We’re very broken,” Rhonda Blake said. “My niece went to school with him, only played with him the other day. It’s just devastating. “

The last two days have been difficult for Charles ’classmates and teachers from Roy A. Hunt Elementary School.

“Blue lit up the room wherever he was,” said teacher Kara Fenkel. “He always had a smile on his face. He had this cute little laugh that everyone loved. And he was the kindest person you’ve ever met.”

“Hearing this news was the saddest news I’ve ever received,” said teacher Brian Heidenreich. “Azuri was the sweetest, most innocent, kind and caring child I have ever met.”

Many questions now arise.

“Who did it and why? Why would anyone offend a 9-year-old child? I don’t understand,” Blakey said.

And there is anger and frustration.

“No one deserves such a death,” Jackson said. – He did not deserve such a death.

Neighbors told KDKA-TV that the boy lived with his mother and three sisters.