‘I’m praying for that family;’ Richmond community pays respects for fallen officer at public viewing
The community will lay Richmond Police Officer Seara Burton to rest on Monday.
Officer Burton was shot and killed during a traffic stop last month.
People lined up for hours Sunday to say their final goodbyes at a public viewing.
>>Richmond community begins final goodbyes to fallen officer
The line grew long to get inside the viewing stretching from the entrance to Richmond’s city building all the way to the street.
“They’re coming out to be with her because it feels like they’re all family to her,” Josh Bowers told News Center 7′s Brandon Lewis.
When you lose someone in your family, the pain can be unbearable and the grief can be overwhelming. These are just some of the emotions Richmond Police are feeling, according to a psychologist.
“First it was the shock of Officer Burton’s shooting and then the fact she survived after life support was discontinued and the waiting game was so devastating for each and every one of them,” said Kathy Platoni, clinical psychologist.
It was also for Officer Burton’s loved ones who have been by her side for the past six weeks.
“So now, I’m asking God I’m praying for that that they will find that healing and joy back in their hearts,” Brenda Jarrell told Lewis.
>>PHOTOS: Visitation held for fallen Richmond Officer Seara Burton
That may take some time but in the meantime, the outpouring of love and support can only help.
“Pray for Richmond and we are going to be okay,” she said. “We are going to be okay. I’m sure of that because we’re standing together. Look at the crowd, we’re standing together.
All this for Officer Burton who was on the force for just four years.
While that times was short, it will still long enough to make an impact.
“This is wakeup call for everyone,” Platoni told Lewis. “The dangers of law enforcement work which makes their sacrifices and what they do everyday that much greater, so we can not fail to rally around them.”
