CINCINNATI (WXIX) - On Friday night, some of those who volunteered in the search for 6-year-old Joshua Al-Lateef, held a prayer vigil to remember him and pray for his family. West Chester police say Joshua's body was found in a pond near his home.
"We were out last night when we got the news that they found him," said Kendall Jones. "It's just heartbreaking."
Joshua went missing Wednesday evening around 5:30 p.m.
"Two nights ago, I wasn't able to sleep too well," said Terrence Strader. "I woke up pretty early thinking about Joshua and the family."
Hundreds of people from West Chester, many of whom didn't even know Joshua or his family, showed up in droves, to trek through the snow and walk nearly every street in the Township, trying to find him.
"I've been in West Chester for 15 years, and I've never seen the community come together as they did in search of Joshua," said Strader. "I don't have any affiliation with the family, I don't know them, but the way the community showed up today and the last few days was simply amazing."
Joshua was non-verbal and had autism. He was a student in the Lakota Local school district. Sarah Aspley says Joshua was her son's classmate and when he was reported missing, she showed up, along with teachers and school officials, to help find one of their own.
"There's been nothing but so much support for him, getting the help that he needs," said Aspley. "If I have any questions or concerns, they've been willing to address it. They go above and beyond."
After more than 24-hours of searching, West Chester Police say Joshua's body was found in a pond near his home.
"It's not the ending we wanted," said Jones.
Joshua's death is a loss that's touched the hearts of so many in West Chester. After he was found, they came together once again to pray for each other, Joshua and his family.
"Just to support the community and support the family," said Jones. "Show that we are still standing and supporting everybody."
Lakota Local Schools says they have a Crisis Intervention Team made up of counselors and other trained professionals to help with the needs of students, parents, and school personnel during this difficult time.