Memorial Service Set for Boy Stabbed At Playground

CALEDONIA TOWNSHIP, Mich. (AP) — A memorial service will be held today for a 9-year-old boy who was fatally stabbed at a western Michigan playground, allegedly by a 12-year-old playmate.

Authorities say Michael Conner Verkerke was stabbed repeatedly August 4 near Grand Rapids. He then ran home, collapsing on his porch. He died at a hospital.

The 12-year-old suspect has been designated as an adult in the juvenile court system, meaning if he's convicted he'll be sentenced as a juvenile and then as an adult once he turns 21.

The boy has been ordered to undergo a mental competency exam.