Cartoonist Gary Varvel Pays Tribute To Fallen Officers Killed In The Line Of Duty
A loss of life is never easy to endure. When that loss happens to an individual that is trusted to protect the citizens, it can be more devastating. Police officers are imagined to be invincible and unmovable; this weekend reminded us that this just is not true.
The death of Indianapolis Metro Police Officer Perry Renn this weekend prompted cartoonist Gary Varvel to pay tribute to fallen officers via the image at the top of this article. Although fatal shootings of officers are not unheard of, each one leaves a hole in the hearts of the community in which the officer lives and serves.
On July 5th, 2014, Officer Perry Renn responded to a call of shots fired, along with two other officers, on the 4100 block of east 34th street. A shoot commenced between the officers and a group of young individuals after Major Davis, 25 years old, pulled out an assault rifle and fired. The shootout only lasted between three and five minutes, resulting in the death of Officer Perry Renn.
Sgt. Joe Moore relived the murder of her own son, office David Moore, who was killed in the line of duty in 2011.
“I’m sad that I’m having to do it again, but the realistic aspect of police work is that we will be doing it again, and again, and again. I get to honor Officer Renn and his family by making sure he is given all the award and credit he deserves for giving his life for the city of Indianapolis.”
Gary Varvel’s depiction of McGruff the Crime dog leaning on the side of Renn’s police cruiser with tears streaming from his eyes is a somber visual of the shooting. Although Renn’s Name is displayed on the license plate, the drawing could easily be used to honor other fallen officers of the past and the present.
Every day that an officer clocks in for duty, they realize it could be their last. That realization does not make the passing any easier for family, friends, and brothers of the badge.
The following was posted on ODMP.org in memorium of Officer Perry Renn:
“Officer Renn was shot and killed when responding to a report of shots fired near the intersection of East 34th Street and Forest Manor Avenue. When Officer Renn and another officer arrived, they encountered the subject in a nearby alley. The subject opened fire with a semi-automatic rifle, fatally striking Officer Renn.
The subject, who has a lengthy criminal history, was critically wounded and was apprehended.
Officer Renn served with the Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department for 22 years.”
Renn’s visitation is from 2-8 p.m. Thursday Crown Hill Funeral Home.
The funeral will be held at 11 a.m. Friday at Banker’s Life Field House.
Graveside services will be at Crown Hill Cemetery in the “Heroes of Public Safety” Section.
Photo Courtesy: Gary Varvel
