Leave the Lights on to Honor Jacob Wetterling on Saturday

(KNSI) — On October 22nd, 1989, the small town of St. Joseph was shaken to its core when ten-year-old Jacob Wetterling was abducted while riding his bike home from the store.

Residents around central Minnesota are asked to leave their porch lights on in memory of Jacob and all kids who never made it home.

His disappearance was a mystery for nearly 27 years until his remains were discovered in a field near Paynesville in September 2016. His kidnapper, Danny Heinrich confessed to the crime. He is serving 20 years in prison.

The public can also honor Jacob by practicing #11forJacob, the 11 traits he valued. They are:

1. Be fair
2. Be kind
3. Be understanding
4. Be honest
5. Be thankful
6. Be a good sport
7. Be a good friend
8. Be joyful
9. Be generous
10. Be gentle with others
11. Be positive

Eleven was Jacob’s jersey number. His family said he loved sports, playing soccer and hockey, and dreamed of being a football player.