Family still misses slain Va. lacrosse player

[April 11, 2011]  CHARLOTTESVILLE, Va. (AP) -- Family members of a slain University of Virginia women's lacrosse player say they still miss her and have faith in the justice system.

Caption: This is a 2010 file booking photo provided by the Chrlottesville Police Department of George Huguely. Huguely, a former University of Virginia lacrosse player charged in the death of a women's lacrosse player, is due in court Monday for a preliminary hearing. (AP file photo/ Charlottsville Police Department)

The family statement came the day before former lacrosse player George Huguely was due in court Monday for a preliminary hearing in the killing. Huguely, of Chevy Chase, Md., is charged with murder in the May 3, 2010, death of Yeardley Love, 22, of Cockeysville, Md.

Love was found dead her apartment after suffering from blunt-force trauma to the head. Huguely is accused of kicking in Love's door and slamming her head into a wall.

"It is truly devastating to wake up each day and realize she is no longer here," said a statement attributed to Love's mother, Sharon Love, and her sister, Lexie. "Yeardley's contagious smile, kind spirit and gentle touch have left this world but we know heaven now has an angel like no other."

The family also thanked supporters.

"We have faith in the justice system and trust that the truth will prevail," the statement said.

[Associated Press]

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