GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. — Family and the Godwin Heights Public Schools community are mourning the death of a teen who went missing and was found dead last week.
A candlelight vigil is scheduled for Monday, Nov. 25 at 5:30 p.m. at Godwin Heights High School to honor Cortez McConer Jr.
"Together, we will celebrate his light and the lasting impact he has had on our school and community," a poster for the memorial reads.
The 16-year-old was a student at Godwin Heights High School.
He went missing on Oct. 26, and his body was found in a wooded area in Rockford last Friday.
Grand Rapids Police Chief Eric Winstrom said the medical examiner ruled his death an accidental drowning.
Godwin Heights Public Schools Superintendent William Fetterhoff said in a letter to parents that the district's crisis response team is ready to help students and staff impacted by the boy's passing.
"Death can be difficult for us to understand, especially when it is sudden. All of us will be feeling a variety of emotions; shock, sadness, or confusion. What is most important is that we care for and support each other," Fetterhoff said. "Any time death touches us, it is stressful. This sudden death may be disturbing to you as well as to your child. It is for this reason that we especially want you to know of our care and support. Please reach out to us if there is any additional information the school should be aware of so we can provide the support your child needs."
You can read the full letter here.
