Our hearts are breaking and our tears still flow. Tommy will forever occupy a special place in our lives. We know the sorrow we feel is shared by family members, his dear girlfriend Ali and her family, and Tommy’s and our close friends. We want to thank the many who searched, posted, and prayed. The only word stronger than loss is love, and that has been demonstrated by all of you.
-Robert, Shelly, and Chloe

Im near water street right now, was wondering if any family or friends would be willing to talk to me about this latest news.
This is definitely the place for this. That’s why there is a page for media coverage of the story. The media’s role in the search for Tom was paramount. It was important to reach all that could help and the Media helped get that done.
The critical thing now is to make sure that stories reported about Tom reflect the rich life he led and the positive impact he left on people around him. I truly hope the media doesn’t focus on his departure alone and forget 28 years of a life well-lived and loved.
I do appreciate that Brett tried to reach people through the website, which is much less intrusive than calling phone numbers that were listed on the website.
Let’s all remain positive, please.
Many prayers for the family and friends of Tom Hecht.
Psalm 34:18
The LORD is close to the brokenhearted; he rescues those whose spirits are crushed
My thoughts amd prayers go out to Tom’s family and friends. He will forever be looking over you and keeping you all safe.
I was hoping and praying this would turn out differently. I’m so sorry for your loss. God Bless you and all of your family.
Dear Shelly, Robert and Chloe,
I had tried posting a comment and I don’t think it made it thru, but if it did-well, then here is another post. However, if it did not…
Words cannot adequately express the deepest feelings in this situation. Love is the only word that comes to mind. I never met Tom but Shelly, I remember how much you so often talked about he and Chloe and the deep love and parental pride you have for your children. My sincere condolences are extended to you and your family during this difficult time. May you find some comfort in the fact that Tom certainly was an outstanding young man and greatly loved by many, many people.
My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family during this very difficult time.
Love,
Mari Lynn Young
Dear Shelly, Bob and Chloe~
Words cannot even begin to express the sorrow and loss at this vey sad outcome from the search. My heart esp. aches for you Shelly, as I recall how much you love and talked about your kids and the heartache you must be going thru. May you find some degree of comfort at this time from your family and the many, many friends of Tom.
Peace and love to you and your family,
~Mari Lynn Young
My deepest sympathy for your loss. Hope his loving memory fills your hearts with joy again with time. My thoughts & prayers go out to the entire Hecht family.
Although I did not know Tom, I like so many others, followed the story closely and hoped for a better outcome. The effort that was put into finding him by his family, friends, and the community was inspirational. It is obvious that he was very loved and made an big impact in his short life. My prayers of comfort go out to those who are hurting.
There are no words that can console for the heartbreaking loss of a young family member. I did not know Tom but I know that Chloe is one of the sweetest people I’ve ever met and it kills me to think of what you’re going through especially since I also love my sister so much.
Please know that Tom is with God now and he knows love and peace there, just as much as he did here.
My deepest condolences,
John
I am so very, very saddened by your loss. I have followed your story, posting your information every day, and have been touched by the outpouring of love and devotion. Your tragedy is heart wrenching and heart breaking; your journey restored my faith in the family bond. I pray that you find peace in the strength of your family and loved ones. Tom is so blessed to have each and every one of you, as you were equally blessed to have him in your lives.
My sincerest condolences for your loss.
I am so very sorry for your loss. I do not know anyone of you but what I do know is Tom was loved. Given the outpour of family, friends and stangers he was loved. I have followed this search and prayed for Tom’s safe return to you. May God give you the strength in this tragic time.
I am so sorry to hear about the final outcome to Tom’s case and I am sorry for your loss. I, like many others, was hoping for a happy outcome. My heart goes out to his family, his girlfriend and his friends. I didn’t know him, but from what I’ve seen, he was quite a guy! May he rest in peace.
May you find comfort in his memories. ..Amen
I am so very sorry for your loss. I was following the story, and
praying and praying for a better outcome. God Bless you all. May your loved one rest in peace.
I didn’t know Tom, but, I followed your story and posted his story on my fb page, I’m so sorry for your loss, God bless all who knew and loved him..
I know that there are not many words to comfort you right now during this time, but please know that I ma praying for you and your whole family. May God bless you all!
My son worked with Tom at Stein’s when in high school they would eat lunch together. He said he was a nice kid. My sincere sympathy to his parents, family and many friends. No parent should have to bury a child,so sorry for your loss. May he rest in peace.
No parent should have to bury a child. To Tom’s parents,family and friends my sincere sympathy. My son worked with Tom in high school at Stein’s he said he was a nice kid. May he rest in peace.
Didn’t know Tom, but my heart breaks for his family and friends. Held out hope for a happy ending…. So very sorry
You are in my thoughts and prayers. God bless you and give you strength.