MCKINNEY, Texas — More than 200 people showed up to Hughes Elementary in McKinney on Monday evening to honor a 8-year-old student killed in his home.
The tragic death happened on Friday, according to McKinney police. Subramanian Ponnazhakan, who is 39 years old and the child's father, was arraigned on a capital murder charge.
"What can a 9-year-old do to deserve this? I feel really bad," said Collin County resident Suroma Sinha.
McKinney police said the child, whose name has not been released, suffered multiple stab wounds, which resulted in his death on scene.
For those in attendance at the vigil, it is unthinkable what may have happened in the McKinney home where flowers, stuffed animals and notes now adorn the entryway.
"We are all from different regions. But when it comes to humanity that still lives," said Vijay Ranganathan
This community is trying to make sense of all this. This candlelight vigil is a reminder that the community is a large one.
McKinney police announced the father has been arraigned and has a $1 million bond. Ponnazhakan is being treated at a nearby hospital and the county's inmate page has yet to show a booking photo.
"From the father's perspective... emotionally something went wrong," said Ranganathan.
What went "wrong" may never be known. But for those in attendance from the South Asian community said they want people to know is that help is available.
"Was this a preventable? Absolutely. Seek help. Communicate. Seek help," said Sinha.