BEECH GROVE — The community gathered Monday to say a final farewell to fallen Beech Grove Police Officer Brian Elliott, who died in the line of duty a week ago while responding to a domestic violence call.
The funeral service was held at 11 a.m. at Beech Grove High School, where those who loved him — and those who simply wanted to honor him — came to pay their respects. All Beech Grove City Schools were closed for the service.
Funeral
During the funeral service, friends and fellow officers remembered Elliott for his humor, his love for the Beech Grove community, and his exemplary work as a police officer.
"We are hurting, shocked, and broken-hearted at Brian's loss. There have been times when it almost seems unbearable," said Beech Grove Police Chief Michael Maurice.
"He was honestly more than a best friend, more than a brother. If you knew him for more than five minutes, you knew he was special," recalled Joshua Shrum during the service.
Mayor James Coffman shared the story of swearing in Officer Elliott.
"Brian later pulled me to the side and told me I spelled his name wrong on the oath of office. I was so embarrassed, but Brian was kind. He joked about it and didn’t tell the entire world like I just did," Mayor Coffman said.
WATCH WRTV'S FULL FUNERAL COVERAGE HERE:
Procession
Following the funeral, the procession made its way under a garrison flag as hundreds lined the streets to pay their respects.
Final 10-42
The procession then stopped at the Beech Grove Police Station for a final 10-42 call — the radio code signifying the end of an officer's watch — before continuing on to Crown Hill Cemetery.
You can listen to Officer Elliott's 10-42 below:
Graveside Service
At the cemetery, a solemn processional led the hearse through the grounds to the burial site at the Heroes of Public Safety monument — a tribute dedicated to public safety heroes who have served their communities, including officers killed in the line of duty.
The procession was accompanied by a riderless horse with boots turned backwards in the stirrups — a traditional symbol of a fallen warrior — along with pipes and drums and a colors team.
At the graveside, a 21-gun salute was fired, followed by the playing of Taps. The flag was ceremoniously folded and presented to his wife, Erin. Officers then filed past the casket, each placing a carnation, before the service came to a close.
WATCH BURIAL SERVICE:
Elliott, 33, graduated from Beech Grove High School in 2011 and earned a criminal justice degree from IUPUI. He served four years with the Marion County Sheriff's Office before joining the Beech Grove Police Department, where he achieved his dream of becoming a hometown officer.
According to his obituary, Elliott married Erin Miller on October 21, 2023, in Beech Grove. He served as Vice President of the Circle City Cigar Club and was known for his dedication to both his profession and community.
During his police academy training, Elliott distinguished himself as Assistant Squad Leader and Honor Graduate, earning the Glenda Mercer Memorial Award for top academic achievement.
Elliott is survived by his wife Erin, his parents Robert and Paula Elliott, brother Samuel (Mary) Elliott, sister Rachel Elliott, two godchildren, and many close friends and family.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Pepper's Pals Cat Rescue in Brian's honor.
You can also make a donation directly to Officer Elliott's family. The Central Indiana Police Foundation has established a fund to support Elliott’s wife and family. A link to the official fund is available here.
