In tearful service, family remembers 12-year-old Colorado girl found dead in irrigation ditch

Slain Colorado girl remembered in tearful service

GREELEY, Colo. — A 12-year-old Colorado girl missing for seven weeks before she was found dead near her home was remembered as a girl who loved to laugh, and dreamed of becoming a veterinarian and visiting Ireland.

Tuesday’s memorial in Greeley for Kayleah Wilson drew about 400 mourners. The girl’s mother, April Wilson, thanked neighbors who helped search after Kayleah vanished March 28 on her way to a friend’s birthday party.

Wilson’s body was found last week in an irrigation ditch about a half-mile from her house. Police say homicide is suspected, but no one has been charged in the death.

April Wilson fought tears and said Kayleah “will be missed and loved.”

An 18-year-old man has been charged with having a sexual relationship with Kayleah.