SAN ANTONIO – It was a devastating day Wednesday, not only for San Marcos police but for law enforcement agencies statewide. There was a full house for San Marcos Police Officer Kenneth Copeland's heartfelt and emotional funeral in San Antonio.
Copeland was killed Dec. 4 while serving a warrant. He went in that day on his day off to help a short staff.
On Wednesday, first responders from across Texas created a much-needed support system for Copeland's loved ones. Along with the proper ceremony for a hero was a powerful message filled with sorrow, love and hope.
"If we can all take anything to honor Ken, it's to treat one another and move forward the way he treated people," San Marcos Police Chief Chase Stapp said.
During the funeral, Stapp watched tears fall and listened to the beautiful words of loved ones.
"Everything that's been said is true about Ken Copeland. That's the kind of guy he was. Our younger officers looked up to him, and I'm thankful for that because he taught them how to treat people," Stapp said.
Stapp said he was comforted by the sea of law enforcement officers who were there to honor Copeland and support his grieving fellow officers.
"The outpouring of support, not only from our community but really the entire United States has been amazing," Stapp said.
"You hear something this tragic, you want to be here to support the family and the other agencies. Be very supportive, because in this line of work, it could easily be one of us," Houston Community College Police Cpl. Frederick Portis said.
Portis hopes the show of support will lift the grieving family up and let them know they're not alone.
Copeland leaves behind a wife and four sons. He is the first San Marcos police officer ever killed in the line of duty.