Vigil held in Trinidad for 19-year-old kayaker

TRINIDAD, Calif. (KIEM) – The Trinidad area is reeling after the death of a 19-year-old man. Wednesday night dozens of friends, family and community members gathered at the Trinidad Harbor to celebrate the life of Nicholas Brunner.

Brunner was reported missing back on June 12 after heading out to the ocean on his kayak. Two days later, his body was found submerged near Camel Rock in Trinidad.

Wednesday night, the Brunner family was joined by over 200 people. Some who knew and loved Nicholas well, and some complete strangers that wanted to provide comfort. Together, they celebrated Nicholas’ life with memories, music and warmth.

Floating lanterns were sent out by Nicholas’ immediate family and flowers were released.

The Brunner family thanked the community for accepting their son and brother who moved to Trinidad from Southern California a year ago.

Nicholas is remembered for his philosophical thinking and kind heart. 

He enjoyed playing pickle ball at the many beaches in Trinidad.