200 attend neighborhood vigil for 6 fire victims

Warren

The scene of a tragic fire that killed six people last Thursday turned into a scene of love and honor during a candlelight vigil for the victims Tuesday night.

About 200 people gathered outside 911 Landsdowne Ave. N.W. to honor and remember Audrea Johnson, 31; Derek Dorsey Sr., 30; their two children, Derek Dorsey Jr., 11, and Ariell Dorsey, 9; Derek Sr.’s niece, Miracle Hugley, 9; and Audrea’s niece, Ja’Niece Hicks, 13, of Columbus.

The six died in the early morning hours of June 16 after a charcoal grill ignited the family’s home.

Mattie Vail of Warren said she’s known the family since they moved to the neighborhood. Vail said she helped organized Tuesday’s vigil as a way to show the family members how much their loved ones meant.

“We wanted to really heal our street,” she said. “It’s so wonderful and nice that so many people came here today.”

Edward Benard, Derek Sr.’s father, said he’s been holding on to the good memories of his son and three grandchildren.

“Talking about the good memories is the only thing that’s keeping me going.”

Audrea’s father, Daniel Johnson of Columbus, mirrored Benard’s words as the two stood side by side, moved by the number of people supporting their families.

“Words can’t express the pain this flesh feels,” Johnson said. “I ache, I sting and I’m numb.”

For the complete story, read Wednesday's Vindicator or Vindy.com.