MANHATTAN, Kan. (WIBW) - Riley County Police said Thursday afternoon that they've arrested a Manhattan High School student for the death of a classmate.
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14-year old Cole Drake is being held at the Geary County Juvenile Detention Facility on a charge of first degree murder for the death of 14-year old Tyler Dowling. Authorities say the two were acquaintances.
Dowling's body was found in a field behind a Manhattan apartment complex Wednesday.
In an exclusive interview with 13 News, Tyler's mother, Angie, said the family is still shocked.
"I still don't believe it's true. I don't know who would do this to such an amazing man," said Angie Dowling, crying over the loss of her son.
"I just want to hug him. He always put a smile on everyone's face. I'm going to miss him," said Tyler's father, Tracie Burnett.
Riley County Police were called to the area near 500 Walters at 5:11 p.m. The 911 caller said there was a male laying in the field and they believed he was injured. A second call came soon after, reporting that the male appeared to not be breathing. Dowling was pronounced dead at the scene.
Riley County police ruled the incident a homicide Thursday morning. Authorities would not comment Thursday on how Dowling was killed.
Watch the morning report
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Anyone with information that could help police, should contact the Investigations Division at (785) 537-2112 ext. 2470; or the Crime Stoppers line at (785) 539-7777 or 1-800-222-TIPS (8477).
A memorial fund in Tyler's name has been set up at Kansas State Bank, located at 1010 Westloop Pl. Manhattan, KS.
Friends set up a Facebook page to remember Dowling, "R.I.P. Tyler."
Wednesday night's report, before police were releasing any details
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