Memorial for Slain Detective, Daughter Set for Thursday

Friends and loved ones will have the chance to say good bye to a slain San Diego police detective and her daughter during a memorial service Thursday at Maranatha Chapel.

The 10 a.m. service is open to the public and will include slideshows for each woman, a flag presentation and a flyover after the ceremony, a service organizer said Wednesday.

Veteran San Diego police Detective Donna Williams, 52, and her 18-year-old daughter Briana Williams at their home in Rancho Peñasquitos. The detective's 24-year-old son, Brian Williams, has been in connection with the deaths.

Donna Williams was a longtime detective in the Child Abuse Unit. Briana Williams, a well-liked softball player and cheerleader, had just graduated from Mount Carmel High School in June and planned to attend a Bay Area design school in the fall. The Williams family had attended Maranatha Chapel.

The church, at 10752 Coastwood Rd., San Diego, 92127, holds about 3,000 people and between 2,000 and 2,500 are expected to attend Thurday's service, an organizer said.

Friends of the women quickly put together a on the afternoon of the day Donna and Briana Williams were killed. Teammates of the teenager sobbed and held each other, and shared tearful stories of Briana Williams' vibrant personality. Donna Williams also was remembered as a devoted mother and best friend to her daughter.

The attorney representing Brian Williams has said that the son had been diagnosed with schizophrenia but was not taking his medication at the time of the alleged murders. On Tuesday, a judge to determine whether he is competent to stand trial.

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