DALLAS — The death of Dallas Police Officer Darron Burks has shaken North Texas as he was loved by so many in the community.
You'll notice on Saturday, Sept. 7, both the Texas and U.S. flags in the City of Dallas are flying at half-staff.
Governor Greg Abbott ordered flags be flown at half-staff to honor the life and public service of Burks, following a request from Dallas Mayor Eric L. Johnson.
"The First Lady and I extend prayers of comfort for the Burks family during their time of grief, and we urge all Texans to remember and honor Officer Burks’ service as a dedicated and trusted law enforcement officer," Gov. Abbott wrote in a letter to Mayor Johnson.
Burks, 46, was shot and killed while sitting in his patrol car in Oak Cliff last Thursday. Two other responding officers were also shot and wounded. He was a former teacher who had just finished his police training in December.
Dallas Police Chief Eddie Garcia spoke to the media before the celebration of life service on Saturday morning. He said it was "an emotional day for all of us" and it "would be a sad day but a great day, a day of remembrance and a day to celebrate his life."
Officer Burks celebration of life service
- Where: Watermark Church, 7540 Lyndon B Johnson Freeway, Dallas, TX
- Date: Saturday, Sept. 7
- Time: 9 a.m. visitation, 11 a.m. funeral
A private burial service was held for only family and fellow officers after the funeral.
Watch Burks' funeral service on our YouTube page here:
21-gun salute
Dallas police honored late officer Darron Burks with a 21-gun salute after his celebration of life service at Watermark Church.
Other tributes
A memorial, located at 1999 E Camp Wisdom Rd, has grown with balloons, flowers, and a cross adorning a patrol car as a powerful tribute to Officer Burks.
Run It Up Dallas is planning on hosting Dallas Police and Burks' fraternity brothers for a run to honor the fallen officer. It's happening on Sept. 14 at Fair Oaks Park.
Football players at Burks' alma mater Lake Highland High School sported the number 18 on their helmets along with Burks' initials.
The Eagle Gun Range in Lewisville is holding a fundraiser to raise money in honor of Officer Burks. It lasts through Monday, Sept 30 and all proceeds will be given to the Burks family.