Slain German woman may get medal for aiding others

Demonstrators place flowers and candles as they take part in a rally to remember student Tugce in Berlin, Germany, Sunday Nov. 30, 2014. They commemorate 23-year old Tugce A. who was beaten up two weeks ago in front of a fast food branch when she tried to help two other girls in Offenbach, near Frankfurt, Germany. She was declared brain dead and the medical equipment was switched off Friday which was also her 23. birthday. (AP Photo/dpa,Maurizio Gambarini)

BERLIN — Germany’s president is considering awarding a posthumous medal to a young woman killed after defending two teenage girls from male harassment.

German news agency dpa reported Sunday that President Joachim Gauck was mulling the honor amid an outpouring of public outrage over the killing.

Student teacher Tugce Albayrak died Friday, her 23rd birthday, after her family gave doctors permission to switch off her life support.

Albayrak had been in a coma after reportedly being struck in the head Nov. 15 following an altercation at a restaurant in Offenbach.

Police say an autopsy will be performed Monday to determine the exact cause of death. They are appealing for witnesses, including the teenage girls, to come forward.

An 18-year-old man identified only as Sanel M. is being held in custody.