Alfa Barrie, 11, remembered by classmates at Democracy Prep Middle School
NEW YORK -- As the investigation into how two boys ended up in the water continues, they're being remembered by their families and communities.
On Tuesday, a service took place for 11-year-old Alfa Barrie at Democracy Prep Harlem Middle School.
The private service took place in the gym, and vigil followed in the courtyard later in the evening. There, students and teachers honored the sixth grader's contributions to the school community.
"He was loved by his family. He kissed his mom goodbye Friday morning when he was going to school not knowing that was his last kiss to mommy," said Ahmadou Diallo, Barrie's uncle.
"This is not the outcome I expected. I was certain he was going to come home alive, but I guess God had ... I guess he was destined for something else, so now he's an angel," sister Fatima Diallo said.
CBS2 has learned more about Barrie, the student, including his aspirations to become an engineer.
"Very energetic, charismatic, super helpful kid who always wanted to participate. 'Hey, can I write on the board? Can I sweep up the classroom?' Always willing to help and definitely a contributor to the school community," said Josef Robinson, Democracy Prep principal.
Barrie's life was suddenly cut short Saturday when his body was found floating in the Hudson River.
"He definitely loved dancing. You'll probably see some social media posts with him doing two-step and him dancing," Robinson said.
Barrie's fellow students and teachers are turning their pain into positivity, putting together a memorial and vigil to celebrate his life.
"We want to give everyone a space to express their heartfelt thanks for Alfa," school superintendent Emmanuel George said.
"We provided a lot of social, emotional support. We have social workers and various counselors available," Robinson said.
Scholars on Tuesday found moments of joy amid reflecting on Barrie and his contributions to the school community.
Barrie's 13-year-old friend, Garrett Warren, a seventh grader at Nest + M in Lower Manhattan, was found lifeless in the Harlem River on Thursday.
Law enforcement sources tell CBS2 the boys may have fell into the water near the Madison Avenue Bridge, where there was a hole in the fence. Detectives say no foul play is suspected at this time, but the investigation remains ongoing.
"We definitely want to make sure we are celebrating life and also remembering them both of the lives lost in a favorable and positive way," Robinson said.
Barrie lived in the Bronx and Warren in Harlem.
As both families eagerly wait for answers, their communities are remembering them as good students who played sports and were loved in their neighborhoods.
"Speaking to his energy and his infectious personality was definitely part of who he was and he will always be remembered and loved for that," Robinson said of Barrie.
According to the city medical examiner, Warren's death was ruled an accidental drowning. While Barrie's family awaits his results, they're looking into getting an independent autopsy.
"We want all the questions answered, which is how Alfa lost his life," Ahmadou Diallo said.
CBS2 talked with Warren's family Tuesday as well. They say a memorial will be held for him next week.
