Slain Bowie State student Richard Collins III remembered on 1 year anniversary of death

WASHINGTON - May 20 marks the one-year anniversary of the death of Bowie State University student Richard Collins III, who was fatally stabbed on University of Maryland, College Park's campus.

Collins was remembered at a vigil by his teachers, friends, family and classmates for his integrity, intelligence and sense of humor.

Collins was active in ROTC at Bowie State, and been commissioned as a second lieutenant in the United States Army just two days before he was killed.

"I'm going to remember his character first and foremost," said Lt. Col. Joel Thomas, who led Collins in the schools ROTC program.

Maryland Congressman Steny Hoyer released a statement on the anniversary of Collins' death:

"My thoughts and prayers are with Richard and Dawn Collins today as we honor the memory of Richie, whose life was tragically cut short one year ago today. He was a student with immense potential, and his memory lives on with all those who knew him,"

As we remember Richie, we must recommit ourselves to ending the spread of hatred and intolerance in our communities. I extend my deepest sympathies to Richie's family and friends on this sad day."

University of Maryland College Park police say Collins died, after investigators say 22-year-old Sean Urbanski assaulted him with knife near Montgomery Hall on Regents Drive, just after 3 am. Collins was taken to the hospital, but did not survive his injuries.

Sean Urbanski faces murder and hate crime charges for Collins' death. Prince George's County State's Attorney Angela Alsobrooks said Urbanski killed Collins because of the color of his skin.

Investigators found Urbanski was a member of a racist group on Facebook called Alt-Reich Nation, which is hateful toward women and minorities.

Urbanski faces the possibility of life without parole if convicted of murder. Urbanski 's trial is due to continue in July.