The family of a fallen U.S. Capitol Police officer has released an emotional, poignant tribute to his life days after his untimely death in a security breach at the Capitol complex last Friday.
"Billy was the best father, son, brother, and friend anyone could hope for," the family of William "Billy" Evans wrote in a moving statement. "His death has left a gaping void in our lives that will never be filled."
His two children, Logan and Abigail, were "the absolute most important thing in his life," the statement said. "His most cherished moments were those spent with them - building with LEGO, having lightsaber duels, playing board games, doing arts and crafts, and recently finishing the Harry Potter series."
Evans, 41, was killed in the line of duty last Friday when a suspect ran his vehicle into him and another officer at a barricade about 100 yards from the Capitol. The driver, 25-year-old Noah Green, emerged from the car with a knife and was fatally shot by officers.
An investigation has revealed Green was dealing with a mental crisis.
"Billy was proud to be a United States Capitol Police Officer," his family continued. "His colleagues from the North Barricade were the people he spent so many hours with, and their friendship was one of the best parts of his job. We hold them in our hearts, as we know they acutely share our grief."
The 18-year-veteran of the Capitol Police is the second member of the force to die on duty this year, following the death of U.S. Capitol Police Officer Brian Sicknick as a result of the January 6 riots. Four others were killed in the siege.
Another Capitol Police officer took his own life days later.
"Our family is grateful for the immense level of support we have received from USCP in the darkest moment of our lives," the statement concluded. "The outpouring of support we have received from the law enforcement community from around the country and world both humbles us and serves us as a testament to Billy’s sacrifice and dedication to the mission of which he was charged."
Evans will lie in honor in the U.S. Capitol Rotunda next Tuesday.
In a joint statement on Tuesday, Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer and House Speaker Nancy Pelosi said they hoped the tribute would provide comfort to Evans’ family and express the nation’s gratitude to members of the U.S. Capitol Police.
"In giving his life to protect our Capitol and our Country, Officer Evans became a martyr for our democracy. On behalf of the entire Congress, we are profoundly grateful," they said.
A ceremonial arrival will take place at 10:30 a.m., with a Congressional Tribute at 11 a.m. Due to the COVID-19 crisis, only invited guests will be allowed to pay their respects before a ceremonial departure at 6:30 p.m.
The Associated Press contributed to this story.
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