GEORGETOWN, Del.- A wreath was laid in honor tonight for Georgetown police officer Chad Spicer. In the heart of the town at the Georgetown circle, the community gathered to remember Chad Spicer 10 years later. It was 10 years ago when police officer Chad Spicer was gunned down while he was responding to a call.
Chad's family, including his daughter Aubrey and mom Ruth Ann were there to keep Spicer's memory alive. Ruth Ann says her son impacted a lot of people in this community by leaving a mark on this town.
"People in Georgetown will not forget him, and Chads name will forever live on. Everyone will not forget him and they will follow his daughter" explains Ruth Ann.
Chad Spicer's life was taken from him on September 1, 2009. He was shot and killed as he and his partner attempted to stop a vehicle that had been involved in a shooting a short time earlier.
The suspect's vehicle stopped and the patrol car came to a stop next to it. A rear-seat passenger in the suspect vehicle fired a single shot from inside the vehicle, striking Spicer in the face. Officer Spicer worked for Georgetown Police Department for one year, where he made lasting bonds and life-long friendships. Chief R.L. Hughes says not only did the police department lose one of their own that day, they also lost a brother.
"Our love for Chad has never waned and we know his love for us has never wavered. We know that and as long as Chad is in our hearts and in our minds, he's here" mentions Hughes.
Tons of people came out in memory of Chad Spicer, and the Spicer family says this means so much to them every year.
Ginny Caras, has been friends with Ruth Spicer for over 20 years. Ginny says she comes every year to be there for her friend.
"I wouldn't miss it for the world. No I have to be here and you know I have to support her" announces Caras.
To honor Spicer, local officers, paramedics, guards, and foundations of Delaware came out to show some support. Dan Kapitanic says its important to educate the public on how this tragedy can happen anywhere.
"People just don't understand officers are just doing their job. They are keeping us safe and that's the bottom line" explains Kapitanic.
As the community sings in his honor, they remember his spirit. The community of Georgetown will gather at the same time next year to celebrate the life of Officer Chad Spicer.