Dozens pay respect for slain Hayward officer as motorcade drives by
HAYWARD, Calif. (KGO) -- As the procession for Hayward Police Sergeant Scott Lunger made its way down Foothill Boulevard, dozens of people lined the sidewalk to show their support and respect for the fallen officer.
As the bright lights of the motorcade pass, 2-year-old Addie looked on in amazement. Her small hand proudly gripped the American flag.
WATCH VIDEOS: Moving speeches, moments at funeral of Hayward Police Sgt. Scott Lunger
"We thought we'd bring her down just to experience it, but we haven't talked to her about it," said Addie's mother Cindy Orcutt.
Addie's family says her grandfather is a dispatcher.
"I just can't believe that these things are happening to the people that are trying to protect us and take care of us," Orcutt said.
VIDEO: Friends, family give touching tributes to slain Hayward sergeant
It's reverence for first responders and police officers like Sgt. Scott Lunger that brought crowds out Thursday along the procession route.
PHOTOS: Procession, memorial for fallen Hayward Sgt. Scott Lunger
"These guys go out every day, you never know what's going to happen to them and I just really feel for them," Tim Orcutt said. "I respect them so much."
Stephanie Lewis, a Hayward resident, said she was proud of Hayward residents for showing up and lending their support.
PHOTOS: Hayward police sergeant shot, killed
"It brought tears to my eyes. I mean I was just so welled up with so much emotion and pride," Lewis said as she watched the motorcade drive by. "I just hope that we'll stick together and continue to be as one as a city and just show our support for our Hayward police officers."
Whether a sign of gratitude or salute, the message is the same.
"I just love law enforcement and I support them," Orcutt said.
PHOTOS: Bay Area police officers shot, killed over past decade
The 21-year-old man accused of killing Lunger is expected back in court next month.
Mark Estrada of Oakland has been charged with murder with three special circumstance clauses. He did not enter a plea in a court appearance last Friday.
Estrada suffered a gunshot wound to the leg.
Police say he admitted to a doctor that he was shot while sitting in the driver's seat of his truck in Hayward, but refused to say who shot him.
Those who would like to make donations to help with the college expenses of Sgt. Lunger's two daughters Saralyn and Ashton can send donations here:
HPOA (Hayward Police Officers Association)
C/O Family of Sgt. Scott Lunger
300 West Winton Avenue
Hayward, CA 94544
Click here for full coverage on the Hayward police shooting.
