'Nothing feels real': Teen who died after stabbing in Halifax parking lot remembered at vigil

A vigil was held Sunday afternoon for Ahmad Al Marrach, a 16-year-old who died after he was found wounded in a parking lot at the Halifax Shopping Centre on Monday evening.

About 100 people took part in the sombre gathering at Peace and Friendship Park in downtown Halifax. Attendees prayed and shared memories of Al Marrach, who came with his family from Syria to Canada as refugees eight years ago

Despite his short life, his love and positive impact are remembered by those who knew him, according to a statement from the family that was read at the vigil by local activist Rana Zaman.

He looked after his brothers and sisters with love and looked after their needs, the statement read.

"He was known for his affectionate and gentle demeanour," the statement said. "His daily routine even included feeding the birds. He really had so much love for all living things."

Those gathered to remember Al Marrach prayed silently at the end of the event. (Vernon Ramesar/CBC)

According to the statement, Al Marrach had a passion for skiing and lacrosse and had aspirations to join a local team.

Nomaan Hussain, one of Al Marrach's closest friends, said he hasn't slept well since his friend's death and has been unable to go back to school. Hussain said they were planning to pool their money and buy a car together.

"Everything doesn't feel real. Nothing feels real," a visibly distraught Hussain said. "I have his other pair of shoes that he was gonna come get later. He passed away with the shoes that I gave him."

Nomaan Hussain was a close friend of Al Marrach and says he feels numb after his friend's death. (Vernon Ramesar/CBC)

Hussain said he has been getting a lot of support from the community. The best thing people can do now, he said, is to pray to God for assistance in a difficult time and to ask for justice.

Two 14-year-olds accused in Al Marrach's death made their first appearances in Nova Scotia youth court on Friday. The pair, a boy and a girl, each face a charge of second-degree murder.

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