Local

Candlelight vigil held to honor Kilah Davenport's life

MINT HILL — Sunday night there was a candlelight vigil on Lawyers Road in Mint Hill for Kilah Davenport who died Thursday evening.

"Everyone knows her story, knows what happened," organizer John Merry said.

Even in the pouring rain, people gathered to show respect and love for Kilah. They lit candles, signed balloons and sang. Just last month, Kilah's stepfather, Joshua Houser, was convicted of child abuse for severely beating her in 2012, throwing her into a wall when he was babysitting. After making it through the trial, Kilah died unexpectedly Thursday night. She suddenly stopped breathing. At the celebration of life in Mint Hill, her family thanked people for their prayers.

"It's just a way for the community and friends and family to come together and celebrate that little fighter's life and the legacy she leaves behind," organizer Dana Gravely said. 

Even though she's gone, her name is living on in child abuse laws. Kilah's Law went into effect in December. It makes sure anyone convicted of felony child abuse faces 25 years to life in prison.

"She is sadly not alone in this city, in this state and in this country, and something has to be done," Gravely said.