Manhattan, IL — A tight-knit southwest suburban community is grieving after the tragic deaths of two junior high school students who passed away just days apart. Hundreds gathered Thursday night for an emotional vigil in Manhattan, Illinois, to honor 11-year-old Danny Bayles and 13-year-old Chance Hunnicutt, whose sudden deaths have left families and classmates heartbroken.
A Community in Mourning
The outpouring of love and support was visible as hundreds of candles illuminated the night sky, bringing comfort to families devastated by back-to-back losses.
“We gather tonight to remember our students Danny Bayles and Chance Hunnicutt, two of our beautiful boys taken far too soon,” said Manhattan School District Superintendent Dr. Damien Aherne.
According to ABC7 Chicago, the vigil brought together students, parents, and teachers from across the district — all united in their grief and determination to support one another.
Remembering Danny Bayles
Last week, 11-year-old Danny Bayles died following a medical emergency. Family members described him as kind-hearted, artistic, and full of life.
“He was such a child that would give. You could bully him and he would still be your friend,” said Denise Oswald, Danny’s grandmother. “He was just amazing, artistic, and always wanted to be included.”
Danny’s visitation is scheduled for Friday, with his funeral to be held on Saturday, as loved ones prepare to say their final goodbyes.
Remembering Chance Hunnicutt
Only days after Danny’s passing, tragedy struck again when 13-year-old Chance Hunnicutt was hit and killed by a semi-truck while biking with his twin brother and friends. The Manhattan Police Department confirmed the incident occurred near a busy intersection in town.
“He was open in genuine love of reptiles, ‘The Grateful Dead,’ and of course shoes that he never wanted to crease,” said Vince Perillo, principal of Manhattan Junior High School.
Chance’s friend Alcott Langenberg said he had been with him less than an hour before the crash.
“It was awful,” Langenberg said. “I just couldn’t really comprehend it.”
Grief, Love, and Resilience
In the days since, a memorial has grown near the intersection where Chance died — filled with red and green ribbons, flowers, and messages of love. The community has also started a fundraiser to help Chance’s family during this difficult time.
At Thursday’s vigil, residents stood side by side, candles glowing as they reflected on the boys’ short but meaningful lives.
“Manhattan will face the impossible together,” said Principal Perillo. “We will continue to care for ourselves and for one another — one moment, one step, one day at a time.”
The tragedies have united the small Illinois town in shared grief and collective strength, as the community continues to rally around both families.
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