LUMBERTON, N.J. (CBS) — The community of Lumberton, New Jersey, joined the family of 6-year-old Michael Stewart on Saturday to honor his life and legacy at a vigil.
The 6-year-old boy died earlier this week on Monday after he drowned in a swimming pool at Liberty Lake Day Camp in Bordentown.
“It’s just incredible to see how my son has impacted so many lives,” said Enjoli Stewart, Michael’s mother.
It was a powerful show of support for Michael’s mother and the family at the Lumberton Fire Station. The community also held a lemonade stand to raise money for the Stewarts.
“We just need to make sure moms realize that community is their backbone,” said Troy Green, founder of Return Kindness.
Michael’s death continues to leave many people in Burlington County devastated.
In the days following his death, questions remain about what led to the tragedy. The family and community hope to get answers as police continue their investigation.
“When we first heard about this tragedy, it was almost numbing,” said Lumberton Mayor Terrance Benson.
“It was just disbelief and shock,” said Colleen Murray, superintendent of the Lumberton Township School District.
During the vigil, Benson announced that June 29 will now be considered Michael Stewart Day.
He also revealed that a bench dedicated to Stewart will soon be placed in an area park.
“We don’t want the residents to forget Michael’s memory, and that includes them,” Benson said.
At the end of the vigil, the community released a bubble, which was a fitting tribute to little Michael who loved bubbles.
“My advice for children and adults is to find a way to use your pain and energy for something good, to help other people,” Murray said.
And while the community continues to mourn this sudden loss, they say they will use their pain to make sure this tragedy doesn’t happen to anyone else.
