BUFORD, GA (CBS ATLANTA) -
A candlelight vigil was held Sunday night for two brothers killed in a boating crash on Lake Lanier last Monday. More than 100 people attended.
The vigil was held outside the community clubhouse near the Prince family's Buford home.
Mike and Tera Prince lost sons Griffin and Jake when their pontoon boat was struck by an alleged drunk driver. Jake, 9, was pronounced dead at the scene, and Griffin, 13, is still missing.
At the vigil, two lanterns were released into the sky above as the crowd of well wishers looked on. Neighbor Jeff Rosenthal struggled to find words to express what he feels the family might be going through.
"It's just sad and unspeakable what happened. I noticed the balloons they set off went towards the lake. I think that's just fitting," Rosenthal said.
Late Sunday, nearly a week after the fatal boat crash, the recovery efforts continued on the lake for Griffin's body. Sgt. Brian Keener with the Georgia DNR said the search has been hampered by deep and murky waters.
"Couple that with when this lake was flooded, they flooded over all the timber. They didn't remove that timber, so it's basically like a forest under water," Keener said.
The family was still too grief stricken to speak at the vigil. They offered a written statement of thanks. It reads in part:
"[Thanks] to all those who have loved our family and who have included us in their prayers, love and concern. And, who like us, are awaiting the good news that the body of our beloved Griffin has been found. We look forward to that time, so we can move forward."
For now the family will hold off on making any funeral plans until Griffin's body is recovered.
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