Leiby Kletzky’s parents release statement, launch memorial fund

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Nachman and Itta Kletzky released a statement Thursday urging people to give to charity and think of their son while praying and lighting Shabbat candles.

The statement was issued the day after the Kletzkys emerged from sitting shiva and also the day a grand jury indicted Levi Aron, 35, for the kidnapping and murder of the Brooklyn boy.

"We thank G-d for the nearly nine beautiful years that He entrusted us with Leiby’s pure soul," the Kletzkys wrote in their statement. "We are certain that Leiby is now looking down from heaven and blessing us all."

“If tragedy is to ever befall any of you, G-d forbid,” the parents continued, “you should be blessed with a community and public as supportive of ours.”

The statement said the memorial fund would "channel the lovingkindness shown to us and our dear Leiby toward many, many others in need."

As of late Friday morning, the Leiby Kletzky Memorial Fund (www.leibykletzkymemorialfund.com) had raised $143,172 from 3,301 online donors.

Also Thursday, one of Aron’s two attorneys resigned. Gerard Marrone in his resignation cited "the horrific way this boy was killed."