An emotional vigil for 12-year-old Melquan Robinson

Thursday, October 18, 2018

(News 12 at 11)

AUGUSTA, Ga. (WRDW/WAGT) – Melquan Robinson lost his life Monday night when he was electrocuted at Fleming Park. Hundreds gathered at that same park to show his family and to honor the two little boys who risked their own lives trying to save him.

Those who knew him best shared memories, some wore shirts with his picture and others held up signs. Everyone in that park lit a candle and released a balloon to say goodbye to Melquan. It's a night hard to put into words.

"I have been through a lot with my brother. That was my soulmate, my heart and everything."

The Robinson family lost a piece of their heart Monday night. Melquan's little brother misses his best friend.

"I liked when my brother stayed by my side and we played basketball and now I don't have nobody to play with and it's just that....I can't get past that because I know he's going to be by my side, but still I want him to be here," Melquan's little brother said, tears running down his face.

His tears only a fraction of the ones that spilled over at this candlelight vigil. His dad taken over by emotion when he saw the two friends who tried to save his son.

"This ain't no easy thing for none of us, but I need ya'll to understand and acknowledge these heroes," Don Clark said.

"They just always thank me every day that I tried," Traqwon Berry said.

Traqwon Berry says Melquan was one of his closest friends. He and David Sette tried their hardest to help Melquan off the fence.

"It's difficult to think that my friend ed away from something stupid," David said. "With something that we never thought would happen unless it's in a movie," Trawqon said.

Traqwon wishing he could talk to his friend one last time.

"I love him and I'm sorry that this happened," Trawqon said.

So many of Melquan's teammates were in the crowd.

"Who are we?" Melquan's dad yelled.

"Titans!" Melquan's teammates cheered.

"These are his brothers ya'll," Melquan's dad said.

His coach shared funny stories about a 12-year-old that loved the game of football, number 23.

"Just all and all, as a family, as a whole, we're going to miss him," Coach said. "We're going to miss him on that sideline like, 23. No one can ever wear 23 again man."

His parents, even in this tough time, graciously thanking everyone for being there.

"Truly from the heart and my whole entire family, we really appreciate all the condolences, all the love, and the that you all have blessed us with," Melquan's dad said.

"I just want to thank everybody for coming out," Melquan's mom said. "All the the community has given, and all these kids who have shown my boy love, Melquan is loved in the city of Augusta, Georgia."

On Saturday, Melquan's football team will have a balloon release during halftime at their game. That will be at the Butler High stadium at 12:30 p.m.