MONROEVILLE -- Family and friends gathered to remember slain cheerleader Demi Cuccia, who was stabbed to death one year ago.

Together, they held candles, shed tears, said prayers, and shared memories of the popular Gateway High School student near the place where investigators believe she lost her life.

Demi's parents said not a day goes by they don’t think of their daughter, and this is a time to remember how special their daughter was.

Pictures of Demi were hung outside her home, and candles spelled out her name during an emotional service led by a youth pastor.

Officers said Demi's ex-boyfriend, John Mullarkey, stabbed Demi in her own home shortly after she turned 16.

Mullarkey then tried to take his own life by slashing his throat, in what investigators called an attempted murder-suicide.

Police reports state that Mullarkey said, "I did this."

Mullarkey is awaiting murder charges and remains in jail.