Friends, family and the Chardon community came to say goodbye to Demetrius Hewlin Tuesday, just days before his 17th birthday.

News Channel 5 cameras caught up with some of the mourners as they lined the streets for his funeral.

Bob Scrozzari was one those people who came to honor Demetrius as he was overcome with emotion, on a day where many tears were flowing.

"It just bothers me so much," he said, fighting back tears. "I'm sorry."

The mass to honor Hewlin was held at St. Mary's Church in Chardon.

Everett and Rebecca Buddenberg came to show support because of the strength and faith of Demetrius' mother Phyllis.

"We came to show our support in the community to let people know that out of the ashes, something can rise through God's work," said Everett.

Suspected shooter T.J. Lane appeared Tuesday before a juvenile judge in Chardon.

Rebecca Buddenberg said in the face of tragedy, there is a higher power at work.

"Unless you believe in God, and you have a personal walk with Christ, you can't get that peace any other way."

Demetrius was laid to rest at All Souls Cemetery in Chardon in a private ceremony.

On the Web www.newsnet5.com

The 17 year old charged with aggravated murder, attempted aggravated murder and felonious assault made a court appearance today.

T.J. Lane appeared Tuesday before a juvenile judge in Chardon.

Judge Tim Grendell explained to him that the case could be sent to adult court for trial.

Lane is accused of killing three students and wounding three others in the cafeteria of Chardon High School last week.

Grendell postponed the probable cause hearing from March 19 until April 3because two new attorneys have joined the defense team. When asked if he understood the seriousness of the charges, Lane, who was dressed in a tan button-down shirt said "Yes your honor."

The judge and the prosecution referred to Lane in court documents as TML III, an abbreviation of his legal name, Thomas M. Lane III.


No plea was attended at Tuesday's hearing, which was attended by Lane's grandparents, who are his legal guardians. The motive for the shootings remains unclear.

Lane will remain in juvenile detention until his probable cause hearing.