Vigil held after New Milford explosion

NEW MILFORD, Conn. (WTNH) -- A community gathered to remember a man who helped his friend out with a gas leak and ended up dead.

That man's son and the owner of the New Milford home remain in the hospital.

It happened last night and the tragedy is still sinking in for the community and loved ones.

Dozens filled the soccer fields Thursday night. They prayed, sang, and mourned together.

A New Milford soccer team sang Amazing Grace at a vigil Thursday night, and tears ran down the faces of the parents.

As they hope for a speedy recovery of one of the their teammates: 9-year-old Nichalos Fratino.

His father, Anthony, who most new him as Tony, died Wednesday night.

"The biggest heart in the world, taking the shirt of your back is an understatement," said Kelly Krepal. "It's an understatement."

Crews tore down the chimney. It was the only thing standing after Wednesday night's explosion.

Police say the owner, 46-year-old John Wilkinson called his friend Tony to come over when he smelled gas.

In tow, was his son Nichalos.

Soon after the house exploded.

"No greater gift can a man give than to lay down his life for a friend. Tony did exactly that."

Now, his son's teammates are dealing with the news.

"I'm sure it will be tough," said Greg Lacava. "You know Nicky's nine, and I'm sure there will be a lot of questions."

Thursday night he brought a piece of hope to the grieving crowd.

"We have learned late this afternoon Nicholas is doing much better," said Lacava.

He's fighting for his life.

While the family is planning his father's funeral.

"It shouldn't have happened," one woman said, "it shouldn't have happened."

The homeowner, Wilkinson is also in the hospital. His family lost everything in the explosion and friends say his wife Alice is 8 months pregnant. Now, they have to start over.