"He was one of my best friends. If anything, he was more of a brother. No matter blood or not."
Classmates of Matthew Carter, the teenager who died Wednesday after being involved in a shooting over the weekend, are trying to cope with the loss of their friend and teammate.
Matthew was a senior at Comeaux High School, where it was standing room only as the vigil began in the cafeteria. Students and faculty then made their way to the football stadium.
Students lit up the bleachers with candles and cell phones as they recited a Spartans chant - all in memory of Matthew.
There were some tears, but mostly laughter as dozens shared their memories of Matthew. His family was overwhelmed by the support.
Matthew's sister, Nichole, said, "We know how much we loved our Matt. But to look out and see how everybody loved our Matt...that's going to hold us so close."
One of those people is Tyler Hunt. Tyler says he met Matthew in the second grade.
"Was getting picked on due to how little I was at the time. Him being one of the bigger guys there told everyone to back off. Friendship's been there ever since."
Even through the bad times. About three months ago, Tyler lost his mother after she suffered a stroke.
"At that point, I tried shutting everyone out. No matter who it was. No matter what our relationship was."
But Matthew wouldn't allow that.
"Matthew knew I needed his support," said Hanks. "And he didn't give up until I let him support me."
Tyler and his friends now want to make sure his legacy lives on.
"These past ten years, I'll never forget. And I'll make sure you're never forgotten."
Funeral arrangements for Matthew are still pending. Grief counselors will remain at Comeaux High School for anyone who needs help coping with Matthew's loss.
