The man who allegedly stabbed a taxi driver to death in Stamford was arraigned Friday as the victim's family and friends called for justice at Stamford Superior Court.

Shota Mekoshvili, 29, is accused of fatally stabbing Mahomed Kamal, 47, to death on Doolittle Road early Wednesday morning and was arrested that same day. Mekoshvili appeared in court with cuts on his face, which police said could be evidence that Kamal fought back.

"He should be back with his family, but unfortunately the killer took him away," said relative Najim Uddin. "We want justice. This is my nephew. He lost his dad," Uddin said motioning to the victim's son.

Kamal's wife was too shaken up to speak about her family's loss.

"He was a very nice guy," said the victim's 10-year-old niece, Nayeema Sattar. "He helped everyone and now he's gone."

At the Stamford Islamic Center on Outlook Street, dozens of people gathered for a prayer service for the victim, whose body will be transported to his native country, Bangladesh, for another service.

Mekoshvili's attorney urged people not to rush to judgment in the case. "It's very, very early," said Lindy Urso. "I know from experience, more often than not, the true facts are a lot different than they appear to be when this first happens."

Mekoshvili, who is being held on $1 million bond, is due back in court next week.