The killing of four of Lakewood’s original police officers left the community of 59,000 shocked, somber and grieving Monday.
The story has gained national attention, but it’s a local tragedy for residents. Although it’s Pierce County’s second-largest city, they say Lakewood is tight-knit, and some residents worked directly with the officers.
A few of them were regular customers at the Starbucks at Lakewood Towne Center, and baristas had chatted with one of the officers just before Thanksgiving.
On Monday, staff had posted a remembrance card and note at the shop’s counter so customers could leave messages.
Lakewood Mourns the Loss of Four Officers
The killing of four of the Lakewood (Wash.) Police Department's original officers left the community of 59,000 shocked, somber and grieving Monday.
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