MANASSAS PARK, Va. (7News) — As a makeshift memorial grows outside the home of Mamta Kafle Bhatt in Manassas Park, so does the heartache and sorrow that friends and family feel for the 28-year-old mother, now presumed to be dead.
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There has been an outpouring of support from the community since the beginning of Mamta’s case, and it appears they don’t plan to stop showing their love for Mamta until justice is served and authorities locate her body.
A time of reflection, peace, and healing was set aside Saturday morning, creating a space for people to process the recent developments, which revealed that Mamta’s husband was accused of killing her inside their home and dragging her out of the house.
“These prayers are actually for all of us and especially for Mamta,” said Holly Wirth, Mamta’s former coworker. “We are just humble servants trying to find justice for Mamta.”
The mother, daughter, sister, and friend united a community in ways they wish weren’t true.
“Today, we’re all hurting, and we need to come together and find some joy in the midst of something that feels horrible,” Wirth said.
People prayed, sang, held one another, and cried – difficult emotions to process yet also ones they knew wouldn’t last forever.
“The message of unity and healing is so important,” said Delegate Michelle Maldonado, who represents Manassas Park and the City of Manassas. “Eventually, we can break a smile and then eventually we can laugh at a funny memory.”
There are memories that Mamta’s best friend, Nadia Navarro, said she’ll cherish forever, even though Mamta’s were cut short.
“Mamta had so many dreams that she’s never going to get to realize. She wanted to be a nurse practitioner. She wanted more kids. She wanted to do so, so much, and she’s never going to get to do that,” Navarro said. “She is this kind of person that has a huge heart, and she gives to others. It’s horrifying to me that her love was something that was used against her.”
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Until Mamta’s body is found, community members said they will not stop looking for her fighting for justice for their friend they say deserved better.
“I’m willing because I loved her and I don’t want to see this happen to more women,” Navarro said.
Amanda Smith is a dedicated U.S. correspondent with a passion for uncovering the stories that shape the nation. With a background in political science, she provides in-depth analysis and insightful commentary on domestic affairs, ensuring readers are well-informed about the latest developments across the United States.
