Community honors two children lost in Passaic River tragedy
Loved ones dropped hundreds of flower petals into the water during an emotional memorial service honoring Michael Klenk and Milian Dula.
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A grieving community gathered along the Passaic River Sunday to remember two 10-year-old children whose lives were cut short after they were swept away by the river earlier this week.
Loved ones dropped hundreds of flower petals into the water during an emotional memorial service honoring Michael Klenk and Milian Dula.
"I can't really say too much right now, but thank you, thank you everybody," said Milian's grandmother during the gathering. "We appreciate the love."
The memorial drew dozens of people to the Market Street Bridge.
"Though we can't specifically understand the pain you're feeling with the loss of your child, we sympathize," said Passaic Mayor Hector Lora. "We want to join with you in your hurt and your pain and say we love you and we're here with you."
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Authorities said three children were playing on a nearby boat launch Wednesday when they were swept into the river. Only Michael's 11-year-old sister, Hope, escaped.
According to police, her brother is the one who saved her.
"Her brother pushed her down, grabbed her shoulder," said Passaic Police Department Deputy Chief Louis Gentile. "She said she felt rocks on her feet, and she started climbing up the rocks and got out of the water...That moment right there probably did push her into a place of safety."
Michael's body was recovered Wednesday night. Search efforts continued for Milian until Friday night, when her body was found.
Among those mourning Sunday was Garfield firefighter Lindsey Giordano, who also serves as director of Garfield Competition Cheerleading and coached Milian.
"I didn't know who the kids were on Wednesday, but then Thursday came around and I found out..the little girl was one of my cheerleaders," Giordano said. "Finding out that it was her made the search even harder."
A GoFundMe has been established to help the families with expenses. Officials also announced that a candlelight vigil will be held later this week at the Garfield Recreation Center.
