Lakewood police Sgt. Mark Eakes was the first customer served at the Forza Coffee Company drive-thru on Saturday, as the coffeehouse re-opened less than two weeks after four officers from the department were shot, the Spokesman-Review reports.
A bagpiper played as the Forza coffee shop opened its doors at 8:14 a.m., the time on Nov. 29 when Maurice Clemmons ambushed Lakewood Police Sgt. Mark Renninger and Officers Ronald Owens, Tina Griswold and Greg Richards.
The coffeehouse is accepting donations until Jan. 1 for the Lakewood Independent Guild for the families of the fallen officers.
"We are encouraging customers to visit the Steele Street store this week," said Brad Carpenter, Forza's chief executive and a former police officer. "We will be focusing on the love expressed by the sacrifices of the officers in their selfless act, as well as the love expressed in the memorials, well wishes and prayers."
Plaques honoring each of the officers will be placed in all Forza locations.
