By Laura Bailey
Community members lined the sidewalks of North Main Street to pay their respects for Bristol Police Officers Alex Hamzy and Dustin Demonte on Friday night.
“Sgt. Demonte saved my life,” said Jamie Perchiano. “When I was struggling with alcoholism, he helped motivate me to get the help I needed.”
Perchiano, a Bristol resident, organized the vigil to honor the fallen Officers.
Families, friends and community members arrived early to the Police station to lay flowers for Officer Hamzy and Sgt. Demonte. Hundreds shared stories of how the Police Officers had touch their lives and helped the Bristol community.
Right: Mayor Jeffrey Caggiano. | Laura Bailey
A procession for Officer Alex Hamzy from the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner in Farmington to Scott Funeral Home in Terryville passed through the vigil. Police cruisers from many cities and towns across the state were saluted and thanked by crowd members.
Right: Bristol Chief of Police Brian Gould. | Laura Bailey
“When he was at West Bristol, Sgt. Demonte always took the time to play basketball with my son,” said Perchiano. “I think of him and his words of wisdom every day.”
Police Chief Brian Gould thanked the large crowd for their support; his words were met by applause and gratitude.
Following the procession, the crowd gathered at the memorial in front of the Police station to lay candles for the fallen heroes.
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