SAVONA, N.Y. —After serving 27 years for the second-degree murder of 4-year-old Derrick Robie, Eric Smith is being released from prison.

People gathered in Savona Wednesday afternoon for a candlelight walk in memory of Robie and in peaceful protest of the parole board's decision.

The group marched from the intersection of Lamoka Avenue and Route 415 to Derek Robie's memorial, which is next to the little league baseball fields.

Some people gathered on the main corner in the village to protest his impending release from prision.

It became national news in 1993 when Smith, who was 13 at the time, brutally murdered Robie after luring him into the woods in Steuben County.

Organizers asked those carrying signs to not reference Smith's name in remembrance.  

Smith was granted a release after his 11th appearance in front of the parole board on Oct. 5.

Smith’s release from prison is imminent, but is currently pending NYSDOCCS approval of housing upon release.