Two candlelight vigils were held for Phillip Michael “Phil” Griffin Wednesday at North Oaks Park and Discovery Park in Canyon Country.

Griffin jumped from the Via Princessa Bridge on Aug. 23.

The vigil at Discovery Park was invitation-only, as his family asked for privacy during this difficult time.

Jeni Park, a close friend of Griffin, hosted the vigil at North Oaks Park and it was open to anyone who wanted to attend.

Park said the purpose of the vigil was for “everyone to get together and be with Phil, because Phil wanted everyone to be peaceful and happy.”

The mourners at North Oaks Park gathered to share stories, sign a tribute poster and to remember the life that ended entirely too soon, according to Park.

After the vigil at the North Oaks Park, mourners created a memorial at the Via Princessa Bridge, the location where Griffin ended his life.

“Phil touched everyone’s life and it’s sad that he wasn’t able to see how many people he actually touched and how many people actually cared about him,” said Katie Logan, a friend of Griffin’s since junior high school.

When asked about the one thing people should remember about Griffin, Logan said, “definitely his smile and that fact the he has a heart of gold, and not only was he a great person, he was an ‘A’ student at College of the Canyons.”

Griffin was last seen leaving his residence in Canyon Country on Aug. 19, 2015.

He recently visited the Buddhist Temple in North Hollywood and was also reported to have been seen in the “river” in Canyon Country, according to the missing person’s report.

Griffin was seen hanging over the side of the Via Princessa bridge on Sunday, Aug. 23 by a passenger of a passing car, according to Los Angeles County Sheriff’s officials.

The passenger had the intent to talk to Griffin, but he jumped without saying a word, according to officials.

Suicide Prevention

Recent statistics indicate the North Los Angeles County region has the highest rate of calls for attempted and completed suicides in Los Angeles County, according to Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department data.

For anyone seeking information about mental health resources available in the Santa Clarita Valley, below is a list and a link to more information:

There are 24-hour numbers available. In the event of an emergency, 911 should always be the first call. Those looking to speak with someone can call 1-800-273-8255, for the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline; 1-800-854-7771, for The Los Angeles County Department of Mental Health; and 1-800-784-2433, for The Treatment Advocacy Center. You can contact the SCV Child & Family Center at 661-259-9439. The phone number for the Santa Clarita Valley Youth Project is 661-257-9688.