CHARLOTTE, N.C. -- The UNC Charlotte student who died after tackling a shooter on campus on April 30 is being featured in a new Star Wars book.
Riley Howell from Waynesville was a fan of the series. He is portrayed as a Jedi Master and historian in the Star Wars, The Rise of Skywalker, The Visual Dictionary.
According to Howell’s girlfriend, Lauren Westmoreland, his family received a letter from Lucasfilm Ltd. back in May stating Howell’s name will appear in an upcoming book publication this year. Lucasfilm Ltd. asked the family to keep the information confidential until the release of the book.
Recently, a former high school teacher sent Westmoreland a picture of the section of the book mentioning the name ‘Ri-Lee Howell.’
Westmoreland was surprised and overwhelmed with excitement when she learned his name was part of the book.
“He’s not here, but we have this beautiful tribute that we know he would love. It just settles things a little bit in your heart a little bit,” Westmoreland said.
The 21-year-old said this is a fitting tribute for a man who lost his life to save others.
“He did what was right in that moment and he did what was honorable and he sacrificed himself. That’s what being a Jedi is all about, so it goes hand in hand,” Westmoreland said.
In May, Waynesville Police presented Howell’s family with a Purple Heart and Bronze Star for Riley’s heroic actions.