BUFFALO, N.Y. -- Students at SUNY Buffalo State are still in shock after learning their friend died in an explosion last week in New York City’s East Village. The victim, Nicholas Figueroa, 23, had recently returned to his native New York City after earning his degree at the school.

Coming back from spring break, friends of Nicholas Figueroa returned to class less than 24 hours after learning Figueroa was one of two bodies found in last week's explosion. Many were holding out hope that he would be found alive.

"I was so surprised, and I just prayed and hoped that they would find him and I'm very saddened by the result and I'm glad that his family is able to have some closure and know at least where he is,” said Kaitlyn Benwitz, Nicholas Figueroa's friend.

Figueroa was reported missing after the explosion Thursday. Sources said Figueroa was on a date at a sushi restaurant when the explosion occurred. Investigators believe the explosion originated from the basement and are investigating the building's gas system.

A family friend said now that his body has been recovered, his loved ones can grieve.

Students also gave their condolences.

"It's really shocking when one of our own Bengals pass away, so I'm sending a prayer out to him and his family,” said Erica Barkley, Buffalo State student.

A college spokesman said Figueroa graduated from Buffalo State this past December with a criminal justice degree and a minor in intelligence analysis.

Figuerora's friends said they will remember him as friend who was always smiling.

"He was always more interested in what was going on in your life than what was going on in his own. He would always ask, 'how you were doing,' before he'd answer how he was doing. Just one of the most genuine people I've ever met," said Benwitz.

Some of his friends also took to social media, expressing their grief. Among the countless messages -- one tweeted, "I never had a chance to say goodbye."

A total of 22 people were hurt in the blast, including six firefighters. Three buildings were destroyed in the blast.

Along with Figueroa, a second body was also found at the site of the rubble Sunday afternoon. Moises Lucón, 26, also went missing after the explosion, but the body has not been identified as Lucón yet.