RIDGE MANOR, Fla. — A vigil was held Sunday afternoon to remember Hernando County teenager Abbriella Elliot.

What You Need To Know

  • Teenager Abbriella Elliot was honored in a vigil by the Ridge Manor community after being found dead near Cypress Lake Preserve

  • A 16-year-old is in custody, charged with first-degree murder

  • Attendees remembered Abbriella’s ability to bring joy and her impactful presence

  • A GoFundMe has been established to help with funeral expenses

A 16-year-old boy is in custody and charged with first-degree murder in connection with her death.

Starting with a prayer, Sunday’s service turned into a time for people to share their most precious memories of Abbriella.

“She could put a smile on anybody’s face,” Abbriella’s mother Danyel Caltagirone said. “Everyone who met her, she left an impact on.”

From tears to laughter, emotions ran strong.

Abriella’s stepfather, Leo Lind, said he never thought they would need to hold a vigil like this.

He added the family is grateful to everyone who came.

“The light she brings to people, her smiles, she’s just fun to be around,” he said. “I’m just so happy, and I know she’s here with us, and she saw the turnout.”

The Sheriff’s Office said there’s no new information to share as of Sunday.

A GoFundMe was started to help cover funeral costs.

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