IOWA CITY, Iowa (KCRG) – The family of 10-year-old Ahmed Osman held a vigil Thursday night to honor him and his teacher, whom they called a “hero” after the two died during a field trip.
The event was held at the Pheasant Ridge Neighborhood Center, which has supported Ahmed’s family since the tragedy at Lake Macbride State Park on Tuesday.
Hundreds of people gathered outside Ahmed’s mother’s workplace to pay their respects, share stories, and support each other.
Community remembers Ahmed Osman
“He was such a joyful kid. He was so amazing,” one speaker said.
Ahmed dressed like a police officer, was funny, polite, smart, and loved soccer, according to those who gathered. He drowned during a school field trip. Those at the vigil remembered him and his teacher, who they believe died trying to help him.
“To lose a hero, another human being, who willingly tried to save a life,” one speaker said.
One of the speakers at the vigil said the Sudanese community has been crucial during this time. Speakers also expressed gratitude to emergency responders from more than 15 agencies who searched for Ahmed until Wednesday before recovering his body.
“We hope and pray as one community regardless of who we are,” one speaker said.
The school board held a meeting Thursday night and held a moment of silence before the meeting.
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