Terrell police hosted an emotional candlelight vigil Wednesday night in honor of the officer who was fatally shot Sunday. Ofc. Jacob Candanoza was killed during a traffic stop.
Candanoza joined the department in July. He was 28 years old with a wife and daughter.
"I think he would really want to be remembered as a good father to Amethyst, as a good husband to Devon, and as our brother," one Terrell police officer said.
People have been leaving cards and flowers on Candanoza's squad car, which will continue to be parked outside the Terrell Police Department.
"It's just heartbreaking. I just wanted to come out and say a prayer for him and the next person who drives this car," one woman said. "Especially at Christmas, the family is going to be without a father, without a son, without a husband."
"Less than a month ago, it happened in Greenville," another person said. "My heart goes out to them, my prayers go out to them. You just don't know."
Candanoza's funeral will be held Tuesday at a church in Rockwall.
The Terrell Police Officers Association is collecting Christmas gifts for Candanoza's daughter and family. Gifts can be dropped off at police headquarters through Friday.
American National Bank of Texas is accepting donations for Candanoza's family. Terrell Police say all donations will go directly to the family.
People can donate online or in person at any American National Bank location by referencing the "Jacob Candanoza Memorial Fund."
People can also write checks payable to "Jacob Candanoza Memorial Fund." Checks can be dropped off or mailed to:
American National Bank
Attn: Mary Spears
PO Box 40, Terrell, TX 75160
or
Terrell Police Department
Attn: Brian Lancaster
1100 N. State Highway 34
Terrell, TX 75160
The Terrell Chamber of Commerce has canceled the city's Christmas parade which had been scheduled for this Saturday. The Chamber said it made the decision after talking with the city and school district, saying the cancellation can give the community "time and space to heal together" from Candanoza's death and the death of a K9 officer.
"Our thoughts and prayers are with the Candanoza family, the Terrell Police Department, and all first responders who selflessly serve our community. We encourage everyone to come together in support and solidarity as we navigate this challenging time as one united community," the Chamber wrote on Facebook.
The suspect, Darrian Johnson, has been charged with capital murder of a peace officer. Texas Rangers are still investigating what led to the shooting.
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