
VIDEO: Thousands Attend Joint Funeral for Slain Florida Officers
The men, Sgt. Sam Howard and Officer Matthew Baxter from the Kissimmee Police Department, were both husbands and fathers who were fatally shot Friday night while patrolling the community they were dedicated to serve.

Thousands of mourners gathered Thursday to honor two men joined in their final moments by an unthinkable tragedy, now lying in a twin set of flag-draped caskets.
The men, Sgt. Sam Howard and Officer Matthew Baxter from the Kissimmee Police Department, were both husbands and fathers who were fatally shot Friday night while patrolling the community they were dedicated to serve.
A joint service was held beginning at 11 a.m. at First Baptist Orlando. Mourners included law enforcement officers from across the country as well as elected officials.
Kissimmee Police Chief Jeff O'Dell was first to give remarks, speaking proudly of both men and their dedication to the department. He said the two men were saving the life of a woman when they were shot and killed, ClickOrlando.com reports.

The National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund (NLEOMF) will honor 363 fallen officers who have died in the line of duty as their names are added to the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial during the annual Candlelight Vigil on May 13.
Read More →
What should every officer include in an IFAK? Sydney Vail, M.D., a veteran trauma surgeon and former SWAT surgeon, explains which components are needed and which are not, and stresses training.
Read More →
Olight has added two new lights to the Baton Series, the Baton 4 and the Baton Ultra. One new Baton features up to 1,600 lumens on turbo, and the other 1,800.
Read More →
Team Wendy’s new RECON Tactical bump helmet is configurable by color, retention, and accessories for rescue, tactical, and military mission needs. It features Zorbium foam pads, shell vents, and lattice cooling pads that balance impact absorption, airflow, and long-wear support.
Read More →
Garmont Tactical has a new 8-inch duty boot with a side zipper, the T8 Specter LE Zip. The boot is available now and features ankle support in a standard duty profile with polishable leather.
Read More →
Streamlight has launched the Portable Scene Light III (PSL III), which delivers up to 10,000 lumens, and the LiteBox 1Million, a one-million-candela long-range search light.
Read More →
Tasmanian Tiger has launched the TT SGL Mag Pouch Clamp M4, an open magazine pouch engineered for M4/AR-15 platforms that integrates a plastic clamping device for secure retention and fast magazine deployment.
Read More →
Whether it’s time to buy a personal patrol light or make the decision for the next department-issued patrol light, what do you need to know? How do you weigh the different variables and make the best choice?
Read More →
Warriors Heart works closely with federal and community partners to expand treatment options for veterans and first responders. By combining specialized clinical care with a peer-driven recovery environment, the program helps warriors rebuild strength, restore relationships, and rediscover purpose.
Read More →
Boots fit differently for men and women, so how are law enforcement boots for women designed differently from those worn by men? In this video, Kyle Ferdyn, of Garmont Tactical, shares all the details.
Read More →