The mayor of Bristol and the police chief gave an update on fundraising efforts and the healing process as the city continues to mourn the two officers who were killed in the line of duty nearly two weeks ago.
Nearly two weeks ago, Bristol police Sgt. Alex Hamzy and Lt. Dustin Demonte were shot and killed while responding to a 911 call. Officer Alec Iurato was also shot and is continuing to recover from his injuries.
In the time since the shooting, the community has come together to raise money to support the fallen officers’ families and the police department.
Mayor Jeffrey Caggiano and Bristol Police Chief Brian Gould gave an update from the Bristol Police Department.
Caggiano said there are two major funds that have been set up and are approved and more than $825,000 has been donated between the two funds.
He also said he has also received one personal check for $30,000 from a resident of Old Saybrook.
Over the weekend, three city businesses teamed up to hold a raffle for Bristol Police K-9 Unit in honor of Officer Iurato. The fundraiser raised nearly $27,000.
Hundreds of people turned out for a fundraiser for Bristol Police over the weekend.
A fundraiser on Fund the First that directly benefits the fallen officers’ families has raised $515,955 as of Wednesday morning.
The donations made to support the Bristol Police Heroes Fund have reached $310,000.
Donations are being accepted at all Thomaston Savings Bank branches, online, and by mail. Learn more on the Thomaston Savings Bank website here.
Gould said during the news conference that he is looking to recruit qualified, certified police officers and he is looking to bring in a minimum of 10, 15 or 20 officers.
He said people interested in applying to the police department apply online through the city’s website.
In addition to monetary donations, people have been bringing large amounts of food to the police department. Support from the community is appreciated, but officials said the have had to donate food to other organizations.
They ask people who want to hold a benefit or donate to the police department reach out first.
City officials said there will be no update on the ongoing investigation because it is being handled by Connecticut State Police.
