Skyler Kauffman's Grandfather Speaks at Local Homicide Victim's Vigil

Hundreds of family members and friends of area homicide victims filled the seats of the Plymouth Township auditorium Tuesday night for the Victim Services of Montgomery County Candlelight Vigil. Law enforcement officials lined the perimeter of the room, many in honor of fallen Plymouth Township Police Officer Bradley Fox.

More than 200 people attended the 23^rd vigil, organized “in loving memory of all the fallen officers and victims of homicide in Montgomery County,” according to the Victim Services Center of Montgomery County, Inc.

Skyler Kauffman’s grandfather, Spencer, spoke about things he loved to do with his only grandchild – taking her to dance class, going to the mall, playing house – before the 9-year-old was brutally killed in 2011 in her Souderton apartment complex.

After almost two years, Kauffman says that he can now control the pain that comes from Skyler’s loss – most of the time.

"[The pain] is overwhelming at the beginning," said Kauffman, "You have to find a way to get through it so you can move forward."

Now, Kauffman takes time to focus more on the other people and on appreciating the simple things in life.

Montgomery County District Attorney Risa Ferman and Fist Assistant DA Kevin Steele also addressed the group.

Steele told those in attendance that an "army of law enforcement" works towards seeking justice some element of closure for the families of victims.

Montgomery County Community College provided music for the event, as well as Sarah Goldbloom, who works for the Whitemarsh Police Department, and Cheryl Goldbloom.

Law enforcement officials read "Law Enforcement Honor Roll," for officers killed in the line of duty in Montgomery County, which included Fox for the first time. A list of all victims of homicide in Montgomery County was also read.

There was then a slideshow of victims, including last year.

Montgomery County Commissioner Bruce Castor, a former District Attorney himself), presented a proclamation to Mary Onama, executive director for Victim's Services.

Onama said that the evening "exemplifies" what their organization is all about, and she thanked Plymouth officials for allowing the group to hold the vigil there in honor of Brad Fox.

Newborn Brad Fox Jr. and his mom, Lynsay, were also in attendance.

"We are with you in your grief, sadness and loss," said Onana  "It touched every single one of us very deeply – we wanted to be sure to recognize that."