Services set for slain Deptford boy

The 6-year-old Deptford boy who was allegedly killed by his mother last weekend will be remembered at a funeral service on New Year's Eve.

Authorities said Jarod Harding died Saturday after his mother, Martina Harding, 42, slashed his throat with a knife before turning the knife on herself. Jarod, a first grader at Pine Acres Elementary School in Deptford, was called "a hero" by his family for saving his sister by yelling a warning to her with his last breath. Christy Harding, 9, escaped and ran for help. Martina Harding, charged with murder, was at Cooper University Hospital last night after surgery.

A public viewing for Jarod will be held Monday from 9 a.m. to 11:30 a.m., with a service to follow at the McGuinness Funeral Home, 34 Hunter St., Woodbury, N.J., 08096. Interment will be private, said Joe Peacock, a funeral home spokesman.

- Sam Wood