Funeral held for murdered Loyola student

CHICAGO (WLS) -- The funeral for Loyola student Mutahir Rauf, 23, was held Monday. Rauf was shot and killed during an attempted robbery while walking with his brother Friday night.

As Loyola University prepares to honor Rauf at a memorial service Tuesday morning, the investigation into his death continues.

A Loyola flag and some candles adorn the spot where Rauf lost his life on the 1200-block of West Albion. His funeral service was held Monday at a local mosque.

"It's was a very sad atmosphere of loss," said Ahmed Rehab, one of Rauf's friends. "The family is dealing with it with as much grace, dignity and faith as possibly, but the pain is deep within."

Speaking for the family, Rehab describes the 23-year-old as a hard-working, young man. Pakistani born, Rauf was raised in New York City, then moved to the Chicago area when he was admitted to Northwestern University. He was pre-med at Loyola and in the process of applying to medical school when he was killed.

"He was as focused as somebody his age could be," Rehab says. "He knew what he wanted and worked hard to get there. It wasn't just about his personal career ambition, but how that met social responsibility and learning the medical trade to help save lives and help bring healing to communities."

An online obituary published by his brother described Rauf as, "an extraordinary and beautiful human being, remembered for his love of his family, passion for life, and the exceptional way he touched everyone who knew him."

Following Tuesday's service, Rauf's body will be flown to Pakistan for burial.