TERRELL, Texas — The Cedar Hill Roller Rink has been a cornerstone of the community for decades, and Sunday night, it became the backdrop of an emotional vigil to honor fallen officer Jacob Candanoza.
Candanoza was killed in the line of duty last week during a traffic stop. His father, David Candanoza, has owned the Cedar Hill Roller Rink for decades.
While the Sunday night vigil in his honor at the rink was open to the public, it was especially meaningful for those who knew him best — family, friends, and roller rink employees who watched him grow up there.
Speakers at the event reflected on Candanoza’s life, recalling memories of him at roller hockey games and attending birthday parties at the rink. Classmates, childhood friends, and local first responders attended to honor his memory.
But perhaps most poignant were the stories shared by his family. Candanoza's grandfather and uncle spoke of the officer’s early years, as did a woman who worked at the rink when he was just five years old. His father, David, was also there, and reflected on the special bond they shared.
David Candanoza recalled the last time he saw his son the day before his death. The officer had stopped by the rink to show off his new police uniform, his dad said, a moment of pride that would become their final memory together.
"All I can think about is the day before this happened. Right there, under that tree, Jacob was showing me his stuff. All of his police stuff. He was so proud to be a Terrell officer," David Candanoza cried. "And that was the last time I saw him."
Officer Candanoza’s funeral is scheduled for Tuesday.
His father confirmed the service will be closed-casket, but told WFAA he plans to place a few meaningful items inside, including one or two of the wooden tokens used at the rink.