RICHMOND – In the midst of heartbreak and tragedy, there is a sense of togetherness in the small town of Richmond as people come together to support an officer who was shot in the line of duty.
“Everybody knows everybody,” Brittney Willis said.
Willis is just one of many workers at Firehouse BBQ in the heart of Richmond who said Officer Seara Burton is frequent visitor to their restaurant.
“She has always been a sweet girl,” Willis said. “She has always been very nice and very polite.”
“Everybody constantly talks about how great she is,” Hannah Coyle said. “My Facebook has been flooded with messages about how awesome she is and how great of an officer she is.”
Burton was shot in during a traffic stop Wednesday evening in Richmond. She is currently in critical condition in a Dayton, Ohio hospital.
Richmond residents all agree that Burton is brave, strong and loves the community she serves.
“She’s got a life outside of that uniform too,” Toni Stephen said. “Officers serve the community, but outside of that uniform she has animals, family and friends. She is just one of us.”
Through the darkness, there is light.
“Everybody has been so brought together,” Coyle said.
Throughout the city there are signs of support with thin blue lines and pictures of Burton – who many in the community call a hero.
More than just signs and pictures, some in the community are rallying to raise money to donate to Burton and her family. The Richmond City Employees Federal Credit Union is collecting money as well to donate.
The Richmond community will hold a prayer vigil for Burton on Friday night. It is scheduled to take place at 7 p.m. near the south entrance to the city building.
Those attending are asked to wear blue.
-
Price of gold hitting all-time highs
The price of gold is up $1,000 from a year ago and more than 30% since the start of the year. Experts say it’s due to the current state of the economy.
Still here, still healing: Through the eyes of survivors and advocates
One year after surviving gun violence, Larissa Smith reflects on her recovery with the support of a groundbreaking hospital-based program that offers therapy, resources, and community connections.
Former IU alumni presidents condemn legislation on board appointments
More than two dozen former alumni association presidents signed the letter expressing their disappointment in a move ending rights to elect members to the IU board of trustees.
Governor Braun marks 100 days in office, highlights key priorities
The governor described his first 100 days as productive. He claimed that the legislative session dealt with this policy issue effectively, at least for the time being.
