Thomas Guzzo was overcome with emotion Sunday as he talked about the young New Kensington police officer killed in the line of duty Friday night.
Guzzo, the mayor of New Kensington, swore Officer Brian Shaw onto the force just this summer.
PHOTOS: Police officer shot, killed in New Kensington
“This has been a tragedy that is unimaginable at this point,” Guzzo said. “Just his energy and enthusiasm for this position that was matchless."
The New Kensington Police Department was ground zero Sunday for the second full day of the police manhunt for convicted drug felon Rahmael Holt, suspected in Shaw’s shooting.
TRENDING NOW:
- What we know about Rahmael Sal Holt, the suspected killer of police Officer Brian Shaw
- Warrant issued for suspect in fatal shooting of New Kensington police officer, reward increased
- What we know about fallen Officer Brian Shaw
- VIDEO: Mel Tillis, Country Music Hall Of Famer, Dead At 85
“We are seeing the best from all of our people,” Guzzo said.
Police from all over Allegheny and Westmoreland counties, including state police, were searching for Holt, who is considered armed and dangerous.
“I don't even know how many different police officers from different places we've had here in the city of New Ken helping us and allowing our police department and our officers to properly grieve,” Guzzo said.
RELATED: Community donating food to New Kensington police, other law enforcement
Along with the intense search for the suspect, there were hourly donations of food and support from the community. Channel 11 learned religious leaders from Mount St. Peter Church, where the funeral for officer Shaw will be held Wednesday, met with police and Shaw’s parents at headquarters.
“I've been able to meet with this wonderful family many times and I just want to say I'm so sorry for their loss, but I also want to say thank you to the community for being there," Guzzo said.
A memorial fund has been set up for Officer Brian Shaw. You can donate by going to any First National Bank or sending a check to:
- First National Bank
- c/o Officer Brian Shaw Memorial Fun
- 110 Burrell Plaza
- Lower Burrell, PA 15068