05/28/2009 (10:05 am)
Family, friends keep up hope
From monroenews.com
By Ray Kisonas
Clutching toy motorcycles, stuffed animals and a tiny guitar, Sherry Buchanan tearfully spoke about her missing granddaughter as family members and friends continued their vigil, waiting for the return of Nevaeh.
Ms. Buchanan said the granddaughter she has raised named her favorite stuffed animals, such as Herbie, Tank and Harley.
“These motorcycles, she would ride them on my table,” Ms. Buchanan said outside her apartment to a group of television and newspaper reporters. “Whoever has her, please bring her back so she could be with her babies.”
Outside the Charlotte Arms apartment building where Nevaeh was last seen riding a friend’s scooter, a makeshift memorial was created under a tree. Hearts and ribbons adorn the tree and other mementos were placed at the base.
Resident Dorothy Morse said her son, 8-year-old John Morse, played with Nevaeh just a day or so before she came up missing.
“Nothing’s ever happened like this before,” said Ms. Morse, who’s lived at the complex since 2005. “It’s a tragic thing.”
Hundreds of searchers have gathered to look for the little girl and candlelight vigils have been held. On Wednesday night, hundreds of people turned out for a prayer session at the apartment complex on N. Macomb St.
“We love her, we miss her, we want her back,” said Diana Lawson, a great aunt who lives in the same building. “I’ve been asking God for a sign to let me know where she’s at.”
Shane Hinojosa of Toledo, the girl’s father, hasn’t seen his daughter in three years because of a dispute with the family. However, he’s been staying in a tent at the apartment complex and stood by Ms. Buchanan’s side on Wednesday.
“I have no hard feelings for this family,” he said. “We just want Nevaeh back.”
Jennifer Buchanan, Nevaeh’s mother, was questioned at length by investigators Wednesday, but not as a suspect, they said. They were trying to learn more about her and her daughter’s lives.
Norman Dewilde, Nevaeh’s uncle, said he has been impressed with the way the community has shown its support the past several days. After searches, vigils, prayer sessions and reward money available, Mr. Dewilde said the family is grateful.
“You can’t ask more out of this community,” he said. “Everybody has been 100 percent supportive.”
Mr. Dewilde said since the disappearance he has noticed parents holding on to their children’s hands tighter.
“You can see kids right with their parents,” he said. “This has made people aware. It’s definitely made the community watch their kids closer and be more aware.”
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