Slain UNC Charlotte student Riley Howell to be buried with full military honors

WAYNESVILLE, N.C. (FOX 46 CHARLOTTE) -- A representative from Wells Funeral Homes has confirmed to FOX 46 that slain UNC Charlotte student Riley Howell will be buried with full military honors.

Howell, 21, was in the classroom where a gunman opened fire on Tuesday. Police say Howell went after the shooter, and was able to take him off of his feet. From there, police were able to apprehend the suspect.

"Absolutely, Mr. Howell saved lives," CMPD Chief Kerr Putney said of the Environmental Studies major. Putney called Howell "a hero," at a press conference on Wednesday, and said he "did exactly what we train people to do."

Howell was one of two students killed in the April 30 attack. The other was 19-year-old Ellis "Reed" Parlier. Four students were also injured in the attack.

A petition was filed on WhiteHouse.gov to have Howell buried with full military honors.

"Riley was an ROTC cadet and would have served his country. Instead, he died saving the lives of his classmates. For his heroism, we ask that Riley be given a burial with full military honors," the petition says.

A visitation is planned at the Wells Event and Reception Center from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. Saturday evening uin Waynesville, NC.

A memorial service will be held on Sunday at 5 p.m. at Stuart Auditorium at Lake Junaluska.

This story was reported on from Charlotte, N.C.