CHARLOTTE, N.C. — Hundreds of people attended the funeral for 16-year-old Benjamin Hager Thursday morning at Myers Park Presbyterian Church.
Last Friday, the teen died suddenly in his sleep. NBC Charlotte has not confirmed the cause of death.
The church was packed, and the streets were lined with cars as far as the eye could see. Overflow rooms welcomed attendees.
Tony Miller lives across the street from the family.
"To see that many people show up, it was very touching," Miller said.
One of Ben's leaders for confirmation in 8th grade spoke about how emotional and beautiful the memorial was.
"His friends, grandfather and uncle, as well as the church ministers spoke," Ann Caulkins said. "There's no understanding why something like this happens. I don't know how you move forward when you lose a child. It's not something that any of us can be prepared for."
In Ben's honor, a scholarship is being set up to give young swimmers a chance to pursue their passion for swimming in college. If you would like to donate to the fund, contact Myers Park Presbyterian Church.