COMMUNITY IN SHOCK : A candlelight vigil in New Britain drew over 600 people last night as residents mourned Jacqueline “Mimi” Torres-Garcia (11 years old). Among the crowd were classmates holding handmade posters reading “We Miss You, Mimi.” One teacher said, “She always brought light — and it’s gone too soon.”

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The family believes the remains found were those of 11-year-old Jacqueline Torres.

NEW BRITAIN, Conn. — On Saturday afternoon, friends and family of 11-year-old Jacqueline Torres shared memories, grief, and their hopes for healing, all in honor of a young life taken too soon.

This tragic discovery has shaken the small New Britain community to its core. Police found the remains of a young girl behind an abandoned home on Wednesday, and family members confirmed it was Jacqueline Torres, affectionately called “Mimi.”

Saturday evening saw those who knew Mimi come together to honor her life with a heartfelt ceremony. People of all ages, some in tears, approached the growing memorial on Clark Street, adding flowers, balloons, and personal messages to commemorate the young girl.

It was a moment that mixed heartbreak with healing—a reminder of the power of love and remembrance amid unimaginable loss.

“It’s heartbreaking,” said Stephanie Sandoval, a New Britain resident. “You know, I lived in New Britain all my life, and we moved to this street. It’s a safe street, it’s quiet. So to hear something unfathomable like this, it’s heartbreaking, especially to the Hispanic community, right? Especially what we’re going through right now as a country. This just wasn’t needed. It’s a baby—someone’s baby.”

The memorial was a celebration of Mimi’s life, the memories she left behind, and the love that still surrounds her. A final act of remembrance was a balloon release, with balloons floating up into the sky as many in the crowd shouted with joy and hope.

At this time, details of the ongoing investigation remain limited as the community continues to cope with the loss of young Mimi. Neighbor Jamie Platt, who heard about the ceremony from his home, decided to join the gathering.

“Everything that they’re doing back there is absolutely fantastic,” he said. “I love the way they’re bringing everything together, showing what they can for their community and what has happened. This is what Latinos are about—they’re about gathering, not about hate. They’re here to respect and pay their respects for someone that’s been lost. I hope the family gets the peace they need, especially the justice they deserve. She deserves it.”

As balloons filled the sky, so did the emotions of a community still searching for peace. Though questions remain about the case, Saturday was about remembering Mimi—and a promise that this young girl will never be forgotten.