Celebrity

Wake Held for 2-Year-Old Boy Killed by Alligator at Walt Disney World

A vigil service was held for Lane Graves in his hometown of Elkhorn, Nebraska, on Monday

Published on June 20, 2016 05:00 PM

brightcove.createExperiences(); A wake was held Monday for Lane Graves, the 2-year-old boy who was snatched and killed by an alligator at Disney World last Tuesday.

The 3 p.m. CT vigil service took place at the Graves’ place of worship, St. Patrick Catholic Church, in Elkhorn, Nebraska. The hour-long service was open to the public.

Lane’s parents, Matthew and Melissa Graves, say they are overwhelmed by the support they’ve received from around the country since the tragic loss of their son.

“Melissa and I continue to deal with the loss of our beloved boy, Lane, and are overwhelmed with support and love we have received from family and friends in our community as well as from around the country,” the family said in a statement.

“Neither Melissa, myself or anyone from our family will be speaking publicly; we simply cannot at this time,” the statement continued.

RELATED VIDEO: Exclusive: Alligator Captured on Video in Same Location Where Boy Was Snatched by Alligator at Disney Hotel

Lane was playing in a foot of water in a lagoon near the Floridian Resort & Spa on Tuesday when the alligator attacked him, according to a witness. The toddler’s father attempted to fight off the gator, suffering lacerations on his hand as a result, but could not save his son, according to the Associated Press.

His body was discovered by the Orange County Sheriff dive team on Wednesday.

The parents, along with 4-year-old daughter Ella, returned home to Elkhorn on Thursday.

Neighbors had decorated their home with blue and white balloons and tied ribbons around their mailbox.

“There are no words to convey the profound sorrow we feel for the family and their unimaginable loss. We are devastated and heartbroken by this tragic accident and are doing what we can to help them during this difficult time,” George A. Kalogridis, president of Walt Disney World Resort, said in a statement.

Lane’s funeral will take place on Tuesday at 10 a.m. CT at St. Patrick Catholic Church.

The Omaha Community Foundation is accepting donations on behalf of the Graves family.