Fort Worth police officers honor their fallen brother
FORT WORTH, Texas - Dozens of police officers gathered at JPS Hospital Monday morning as the body of a fallen Fort Worth police officer was moved.
At least 40 officers turned on their lights to pay respect to Officer Garrett Hull. His body was moved to the Tarrant County Medical Examiner’s Office.
The 40-year-old undercover officer was shot in the head late Thursday night by a robbery suspect.
He was part of a team trailing three men suspected in 17 bar robberies. Police said the suspects went to strike again. There was a gunfire as police moved in.
Other officers returned fire and killed the suspect who shot Officer Hull. He was identified as Dacion Steptoe. The other two suspects – Samuel Mayfield and Timothy Huff – now face a long list of charges.
The injured officer fought for more than a day but died late Friday night with his wife and two daughters by his side.
A memorial remains outside the Fort Worth Police Department. People continued through the day to visit and contribute to the memorial for Officer Hull.
Many of those who went to leave flowers at the memorial are from police families. Some had a history of serving in law enforcement.
“It’s terrible he had to lose his life to get criminals off the street, but at least he made a mark with what he has done,” said Joretta Lanier who comes from a police family. “I know the whole city of Fort Worth is very proud of him. He is a hero.”
A candlelight vigil is being planned for Wednesday night at 7:35 p.m. outside of police headquarters on Felix Street. The department says the public is invited to attend.
Funeral arrangements will be announced during a press conference on Tuesday.
Donations for the family can be sent to atofortworth.org/make-a-donation/.