Candlelight vigil held for Dejon Smith; Tribute at STHS

Memories were shared all day Thursday in South Lake Tahoe, from white ribbons and thoughts shared on banners to an evening candlelight vigil.

It marks one week since 14-year old Dejon Smith went missing after spending time with friends during a storm with high winds and rain. His body was found under a fallen tree two days later.

A few hundred people attended the candlelight vigil in a meadow near where the accident occurred. Many shared their memories of Dejon. "All the Vikings will miss you and we will always love you and we will see you again," said a fellow STHS football played. Others spoke of growing up with Dejon and of times they'd shared.

Both parents spoke, dad DeShawn and mom Taneka, and thanked the community for their support.

Co-workers, friends, neighbors and community members walked into the meadow. Among them was John Marchini of South Tahoe Refuse (STR) and Deanna Schouten, of the local family owned Grocery Outlet, the Smith's employers. STR is going to cover the costs of the funeral while Grocery Outlet is covering some expenses.

During the day, students at South Tahoe High and South Tahoe Middle School let written memories on banners at the school. Students at STHS distributed white ribbons for people to wear.

"I am extremely proud of our students and community for the support and willingness to help one another with our grieving processes," STHS Principal Chad Houck said.