Derek Lagos, 13, who passed away in Secaucus on Monday, was mourned by hundreds of friends this week. The teen played soccer and baseball and won soccer awards.
The cause of death has not yet been determined and the Medical Examiner’s Office is investigating the matter.
His wake was held Thursday, and more services were planned for today (Friday) at 10 a.m. at Immaculate Conception at 1219 Patterson Plank Road, across the street from Mack Memorial Home.
Lagos was involved in a tutoring program and had planned to attend the prestigious St. Peter’s Preparatory High School in Jersey City next year.
Friends of his have created Youtube videos (like the one embedded here) and a Facebook page in tribute. As of Friday morning, 824 people had joined the Facebook group and more than 100 had left comments.
One young friend wrote, “The last week has been honestly the hardest days of my life. Ive cried everyday. Doesnt matter how much i did cry it might have been a thousand tears or just one. It just shows that i love Derek Lagos to death. Its horrible he took his life at the young age of 13 but it was his time to go. He lived an awesome life. Everyone loved him. He thought no1 did. A lot of girls thought he was good looking. He didnt think they did. He thought he wasnt good at sports.He was by far the best.”
Many friends, classmates, and teammates left comments on his athletic prowess and kindness.
The Facebook page can be viewed here, but you must register and log in.