Students mourn the loss of a teacher

EAST AURORA, N.Y. (WIVB) - There is much we cannot tell you about what led to a man's suicide after an overnight standoff with Orchard Park Police. We can tell you that it's left behind many broken hearts among the students he taught in East Aurora.

At least 200 people gathered for a spontaneous candle light vigil. The teacher, 32-year-old Albert Raab, was voted 'most popular' by the class of 2009. Raab taught history at East Aurora High School for at least seven years. Early Monday morning he was found dead in his home on Larned Lane after a standoff with Orchard Park Police. He had a rifle, and apparently took his own life. Now, former students are trying to make sense of it all.

Bridget McDonnell said, "He is someone you can go to no matter if it's a problem about a class, or school, or a personal problem, he was always there for you. You could go in on a free period. He was just a great guy and was really passionate about what he did."

"He wasn't just a teacher in front of a classroom. He was someone that you saw him in the hallway, he said, 'hi' to you, he knew everyones' names. He was always willing to talk to you about whatever, it didn't have to be about class. He was a big supporter of all the student athletes. He always came out to all the games," said Kelsey Schneider.

Hannah Bourque said, "He was just a great guy and a great teacher and we all just don't understand. So we all just want to come together and remember him for who he was."

Neighbors say Raab leaves behind a wife and a small child. School officials are expected to make a statement on his passing on Tuesday.