TWO RIVERS — Lenny’s II Bar & Grill is normally a lively place full of conversations and laughs, but for 15 minutes on Friday evening, the mood turned somber.
Patrons watched the TVs closely as Two Rivers Police confirmed that the remains discovered nearby were those of Elijah Vue.
Watch: Two Rivers community reacts to remains identified as that of Elijah Vue
Previous Coverage: Two Rivers police confirm human remains found are those of Elijah Vue (tmj4.com)
The news brought a variety of reactions to those inside.
“I don't think it can bring closure to anyone because it’s devastating, and it just makes you hold your kids and your grandkids closer.,” said Amy Johnson.
Others, like Alex Johnson, spoke highly of the community's involvement over the past seven months in trying to locate the young boy.
“Just seeing the community efforts to help try to find him, although it's not the result that we wanted, we at least have somewhat closure right now,” said Alex.
The news traveled fast and into downtown. As musicians were gearing up to play, TMJ4 News caught up with Ellen Herrmann. She was sad over the news and the loss of life.
“He should have had a good future ahead of him. Now, it's already taken away from him.,” said Herrmann.
Since Elijah’s disappearance in February, hundreds of volunteers have searched far and wide for any sign of the little boy.
One of those volunteers was Laurie Hamblen. She said she spent 180 hours coordinating search efforts.
“I was hoping we discovered him somewhere alive. My secondary reaction was, thinking of the family... they all put in so much time and so many hours to try and find Elijah,” said Hamblen.
Now that the search has become a death investigation, Laurie hopes this new information will help lead to closure for the family.
“We need justice to be served for this little boy’s sake,” said Hamblen.
Hamblen thanked all of those who had helped in the search efforts and praised the community collaboration throughout Manitowoc County.
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