Memorial service held for SF student fatally stabbed

SAN FRANCISCO (KGO) -- The memorial service is just wrapping up for Rashawn Williams, a 14-year old San Francisco high school freshman stabbed to death by a former classmate.

There were tributes filled with tears and fond memories as hundreds poured into St. Mary's Cathedral to say goodbye to the freshman football player.

The hearse carrying Rashawn was another reminder that this would be the last time many who knew and loved the teen would have an opportunity to say good bye.

Williams was fatally stabbed outside a corner store in San Francisco's Mission District. Police quickly arrested a 14-year old classmate and charged him with Williams' murder.

Rashawn's untimely death has brought many people together.

"It's overwhelming to me. It kind of leaves me speechless with pain and with appreciation," said his uncle Robert Powell.

"It's been a whirl wind of support and also anxiety, a lot of tears, but an overwhelming sense of community," said Michelle Forshner of Sacred Heart Cathedral Preparatory School.

Rashawn was a top student and talented football player who had earned a near-full scholarship to Sacred Heart.

The boy accused of killing him made his first court appearance in Juvenile Court on Monday.