Classmates remember murdered Drexel grad

WEST PHILADELPHIA (WPVI) -- More than 100 people, including many of her classmates at Drexel University, gathered for a candlelight vigil to mourn Jasmine Wright and celebrate her life.

"All she ever wanted to do was dedicate her life to building communities - better, safe communities. I just want to say that the world just truly lost someone that's significant," classmate Alexis Amankwanor said.

"We really became a family, and she was an integral member of our family. And we're still shocked by the loss. I don't think that shock will ever go away," classmate Evan Goodman said.

The 27-year-old Drexel grad was found brutally beaten to death inside her West Philadelphia apartment last week.

Police have since arrested a person of interest, a 56-year-old former handyman, who so far has only been charged with burglary. Police say he had access to Wright's apartment.

Investigators are awaiting the results of DNA testing that they say could link him to the murder.

There were no signs of sexual assault, but the beating and strangling point to a person in a rage.

Police believe Wright had been dead for 24 hours when her body was discovered by the property manager.

Earlier Monday, people gathered at Monumental Baptist Church for a music and prayer service in memory of Wright.

"Tears of a broken-hearted community," said Reverend Dr. J. Wendell Mapson, Jr. "For whether we knew Jasmine or not, her death diminishes us all."

At the nighttime vigil, those gathered released balloons in memory of Jasmine Wright.