CNY Community, Friends, and Family Mourn Loss Of Bianca Devins

Last night, hundreds of people gathered to mourn the loss of 17-year-old Bianca Devins. The candle light vigil took place in Proctor Park.

Utica police say Devins, a recent Thomas R. Proctor High School graduate, was murdered Sunday morning by her boyfriend, Brandon Clark, 21, of Bridgeport, who then tried to take his own life.

Townsquare Media employee, Angelo DiGiorgio, was a classmate of Devins. He attended the vigil last night and noted how great of a person she was.

I remember her quite fondly. She was energetic, outgoing. So talented, so artistic. Truly a beautiful human being. No one deserves this.

The night began with reminiscing about Devins, people sharing memories and stories.

"Then, we all lit our candles. We sang some songs, like "Puff the Magic Dragon" which was led by her grandfather. He said a few words about her, then a chant broke out saying 'Love Not Violence,'" DiGiorgio recalled. He also said floating lanterns were sent off in her memory.

The Utica City School District released a statement last night on Facebook that counseling will be available at Proctor High School .

The Utica City School District community is saddened to learn about the tragic and untimely passing of one of our 2019 graduates, Bianca Devins. We share our deepest heartfelt condolences with her family and loved ones. Our thoughts and prayers are with them during this very difficult time. Counseling services will be available at Proctor High School each day this week from 9:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.

If you or someone you know is in a situation with domestic violence, the Utica Police Department urges you to contact them at 315-735-3301 and ask for their domestic violence unit. You can also reach out to the National Domestic Violence hotline at 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) or use their online web chat. They have resources for anyone in the United States who is experiencing domestic violence, seeking resources or information, or questioning unhealthy aspects of their relationship. They can also help provide support to friends and family members who are concerned about a loved one.