Community gathers in Lehigh Acres to honor Connor Blais after fatal hit-and-run

Friends and family of Connor Blais gathered at Faith Evangelical Lutheran Church in Lehigh Acres to honor his life, as the investigation into the hit-and-run crash that killed him last month continues. "It's very heartwarming, but it's also heartbreaking, right?" said Janet and Douglas Blais, Connor's parents. The church hall was filled with a sea of red as loved ones remembered Connor, who was known for his selflessness and dedication to helping others. "Connor has always given something of himself to everyone, whether it be one-on-one by being a server, dossiers or in the Boy Scouts, or in any other kind of volunteer groups, but he's always giving so much of himself and expecting nothing in return," said Lawrence Cassenti, Connor's partner. West Palm Beach police said Connor was killed in a hit-and-run crash last month in downtown West Palm Beach. His parents said it meant everything to see the community come together in Lehigh Acres, where Connor grew up, went to school, and volunteered. "It brings a lot of tears, but it also brought a lot of hugs and to me hugs is a lot better than words because there are no words to express how you feel with that," said Janet and Douglas Blais. As the search for the driver responsible continues, Connor's parents and partner spoke on what justice would mean. "It will feel like closure to know who did it and have some kind of justice, but there is no penalty that is going to take the pain away from Janet and I, and that he was robbed from the life that we were building. We had an amazing relationship, and it will feel justified that she gets justice, but there's nothing that will really make us feel better," Cassenti said. West Palm Beach police said the investigation remains ongoing. DOWNLOAD the free Gulf Coast News app for your latest news and alerts on breaking news, weather, sports, entertainment, and more on your phone or tablet. And check out the Very Local Gulf Coast app to stream news, entertainment and original programming on your TV.