Dozens Gather To Remember Teen Swimmer In Northeast Philadelphia
By Diana Rocco
PHILADELPHIA (CBS) –Dozens gathered for a candlelight vigil to remember the teenager who went missing while swimming with friends in a rain-swollen creek in Northeast Philadelphia.
People gathered along Pennypack Creek to remember 13-year-old Brandon Boyle. Many didn't even know his family, but were heartbroken by his loss.
"Just I'm so overwhelmed," said Brandon's mother, Kim Boyle. "It blessed me so much. I can't thank everybody enough. I have never seen anything like this."
On Thursday morning, officials say a body had been found in the Pennypack Creek not far from where the 13-year-old went missing Monday (See Previous Story). Boyle was reportedly swimming in the creek with his brother when he was swept away. His 11-year-old brother was rescued from the creek shortly thereafter.
Overcome with grief, Brandon's mother is grateful for the support of a loving neighborhood.
"I want to thank every person that's come out here since Monday for my boy. My boy who is going to be 14 in two weeks," said Brandon's mother.
Thursday night, hundreds gathered at the water's edge with prayer, hugs and tears, placing candles in the creek. Many now concerned for Anthony, Brandon's younger brother who tried to save him.
"He's fine. He just misses his brother," said Brandon's mother.
Brandon was the oldest of six and heading to ninth grade next year.
"He was always there when you needed him," said friend Brandon Campbell. "He was a friendly guy. He was funny. he was a great guy."
"As his friends we'll keep him in our hearts, we'll always remember," said another friend.
