AceShowbiz -

There were an estimated 1,200 people attending the candlelight vigil, which was hosted to honor the late Michael Jackson, held at the Motown Historical Museum in Detroit on Sunday June 28, confirmed Sharon Banks, a spokeswoman for the event. The reason the vigil was held at the building, which is also dubbed as Hitsville U.S.A., is because it was the launching pad for the King of Pop's career in music industry. It was the place where he recorded for the very first time with Jackson Five.

Numerous Michael's fans of all ages and ethnic groups have gathered outside Hitsville every day since his sudden death last week, Sharon confirmed further. And the increasing number of people who took part in the vigil has made organizers running out of its stock of candles.

In related news, Michael's family has not yet shared with the press funeral plans for the King of Pop despite the fact that second autopsy performed by a private pathologist has been completed on Saturday, June 27. In the meantime, talks have been swirling that the Jacksons are still trying to decide whether to hold a private memorial or a grand public celebration for Michael.

Also on Saturday, Michael's father Joseph Jackson issued a public statement on behalf of the entire family regarding the performer's sudden death. "In one of the darkest moments of our lives we find it hard to find the words appropriate to this sudden tragedy we all had to encounter. Our beloved son, brother and father of three children has gone so unexpectedly, in such a tragic way and much too soon. It leaves us, his family, speechless and devastated to a point, where communication with the outside world seems almost impossible at times," read part of the statement.

"We miss Michael endlessly, our pain cannot be described in words. But Michael would not want us to give up now. So we want to thank all of his faithful supporters and loyal fans worldwide, you - who Michael loved so much. Please do not despair, because Michael will continue to live on in each and every one of you. Continue to spread his message, because that is what he would want you to do. Carry on, so his legacy will live forever," the statement read further. Joseph then added, "My grandchildren are deeply moved by all the love and support you have shown for them and their father, Michael Jackson."