SAN ANTONIO - A heart breaking candlelight vigil was held Saturday night for a 5-year old boy who died Thursday night. His father and stepmother are accused in his death.
Twenty-seven year old Crystal Williams and 25-year old Charleston Williams were arrested Friday night. Police say the medical examiner founds signs of serious abuse, malnutrition and neglect on the body of Josiah Williams. He was found unresponsive at their home Thursday.
As cold as it was Saturday night dozens of family, friends, neighbors, strangers, and even children got together to pray and honor a little boy whose life was cut way too short. In the dark and cold night the warmth of the love for 5-year old Josiah Williams could be felt within the crowd. There were prayers, songs, and tears.
Sylvia Balleza who was Josiah’s great aunt said, “This is all about Josiah, and everybody who knew him and loved him, and we all know in our hearts who our Josiah was”.
There were some in the crowd who never met the spirited little boy. Lupe Rocha, who lived down the street, was one of them. But, she said she had to show her support and mourn the loss of an innocent child.
“We don't know why these things happen, but we're all out there together tonight remembering this little angel and he did matter, he mattered to all of us who our out here and he touched our hearts,” wept Lupe Rocha.
There was also a call for justice.
Josiah’s grandfather, Martin Balleza said, “Angry, mad, but oh well, we'll put it in God's hands, let justice take care of it”.
“We are going to get justice for our baby because no child should endure the pain that our baby did,” expressed Sylvia Balleza.
Josiah’s family explained because of the holidays, they have not yet decided on funeral arrangements for Josiah. But once arrangements are made News 4 WOAI will share that with everyone.
