Vigil for 3 year anniversary of teen's murder

By: Jerrika Insco - Email

Updated: Thu 11:52 PM, Sep 13, 2012

September 13, 2009 is a day some people in Lexington will never forget. It was the day 19-year-old Michael Hanley was shot and killed exactly three years ago.

Hanley was shot and killed at a Shell station in Lexington, and his mother says she arrived before paramedics did and held him as he died in her arms.

She says it's still too much to handle.

"There's just so much hurt there, and it doesn't get easier. People says it does. But it don't," said Tammy Hanley, Michael's mother.

His family says they still ache, and of course, wish he was around mainly to keep his family together.

"It was just way too soon. He was only 19 years old. But he's in a better place now. He's not struggling like we are," said Tara Hanley, Michael's younger sister.

And his friends and family remember him in a special way on this day every year where he was laid to rest.

"It's going to him, so sometimes I write little notes. And then if it busts, then families get to keep him in his prayers, that he is missed everyday," said Tammy Hanley.

Candlelight, balloons, and messages are all this family can now give to Michael Hanley.

"Rest in peace, Mike. You'll never be forgotten," said Megan Slone, Michael's cousin.

William Thorton is behind bars for Michael Hanley's murder.

Candle factory destroyed by fire in Casey County