Mourners urged to remember slain University of Texas student

BEAVERTON, Ore. (AP) — The family of a slain 18-year-old University of Texas student urged mourners at a funeral on Saturday to remember the young woman's joyful life, not just the way it ended.

Haruka Weiser's 16-year-old brother Noboru spoke on behalf of the family during the funeral in Beaverton, Oregon, recalling sleepovers, good-natured teasing and other moments from their childhood.

Haruka Weiser was killed earlier this month at the University of Texas, where she was a freshman dance student. Her body was found in a creek on the Austin campus on April 5, and police have said she was likely targeted at random.

Meechaiel Criner, a 17-year-old runaway, has been charged with murder in connection with Weiser's death.

Weiser is survived by her brother, her 14-year-old sister Naomi and her parents, Thomas Weiser and Yasuyo Tsunemine. Noboru said the family wanted people to remember his sister so that her joy can continue to grow in the hearts of those who love her.