In the heart of Wilkes-Barre, hundreds gathered in a show of solidarity and mourning for La’Niyah “Lala” Clark, a teenager who left a lasting impression with her vibrant personality and infectious laughter. The community came together at a vigil to honor the young girl, whose life was tragically cut short.
La’Niyah, affectionately known as “Lala,” was celebrated for her uncontainable energy and humor. Her love for macaroni and cheese, Hello Kitty, and playing at Charles Street Park were fondly remembered by those who gathered in the South Wilkes-Barre parking lot. The vigil took place near the garage where her remains were found a week earlier, with attendees sharing stories and shedding tears.
“Yeah, this is probably the hardest thing I’ve ever done,” said Antoine Clark, La’Niyah’s adoptive father, to the crowd.
‘She was our baby’
Antoine Clark reflected on La’Niyah’s vibrant spirit, describing her as a “bright light” in the family. “She laughed, she joked. She had the goofiest laugh that you can ever hear,” he shared.
La’Niyah, who was hearing-impaired, was adopted by Antoine and Ameerah Woods in 2020. Woods fondly recalled her daughter’s unfiltered personality, stating, “She had no filter, and she would say anything that came to her mind.”
The young girl was reported missing on January 17, and her remains were discovered on February 21. She had just celebrated her 14th birthday on January 26. Attendees of the vigil released balloons and shared memories, a Hello Kitty cake marking what would have been her 15th birthday.
‘The details of it have impacted us so much’
Candice Lowe, a family friend and spokesperson, expressed gratitude for the community’s support, saying, “It restores your faith in humanity.” The case, however, has left the community shaken, with police reporting signs of trauma on La’Niyah’s body. The investigation continues, focusing on a nearby apartment building linked to her case.
‘We are not done with this, Lala’
Chants for justice echoed through the night, with family and friends vowing to keep La’Niyah’s memory alive. Her adoptive grandmother, Carmen Tinson, emphasized the pursuit of justice, saying, “There’s going to be justice for Lala.”
Among the attendees was a young girl named Bella, who identified La’Niyah as her best friend, reminiscing about their playful times together. YMCA counselors spoke of La’Niyah’s vivacious personality, with one staff member recalling, “She unapologetically took up space, and I loved that about her.”
The family hopes to rename Charles Street Park in her honor, with her adoptive aunt, Sameerah Woods, declaring, “We are going to fight for you, Lala, name that park after you.”
Status of case
Authorities confirmed La’Niyah’s identity through dental records. Her biological aunt, Bobbiejo Etzel, has been arrested in Maryland and faces charges related to La’Niyah’s disappearance. Investigations continue, with police exploring connections to the New Alexander Street apartment building. The family remains committed to seeking justice and advocating for change.
