Thousands Gather To Say Farewell To Sacramento County Sheriff's Deputy Danny Oliver
ROSEVILLE (CBS13) — Thousands gathered in Roseville on Monday to say a final farewell to a Sacramento County Sheriff's deputy who was killed during a crime spree that spanned two counties.
The law enforcement community honored deputy Danny Oliver with a formal send-off just over a week since he was shot and killed at a Motel 6 while responding to a call about a suspicious vehicle.
It all started outside law Adventure Christian Church in Roseville on Monday when the deputy's casket arrived. Men and women in uniform poured onto the grounds—some from out of state and some we're told from overseas.
Nearly 4,500 people gathered to say farewell to Oliver.
"There is certainly a bond in the law enforcement profession," said Sgt. Randy Winn. "We understand each other. We understand what we see, what we go through. And when one of us is injured or hurt, we all feel it."
It was quiet for nearly an hour as officers got in formation for the family of the fallen deputy.
"The images of their trips all across the world show a man who loved life, adored his wife and wanted nothing more than to be by her side," said Undersheriff James Lewis.
CBS13 learned Oliver turned down a promotion so he could continue working in the problem-oriented policing unit that he loved.
"He made our department proud," said Capt. Matt Morgan. "And the ultimate goal one can earn as a peace officer- he made his community feel safe."
Co-workers mourn the loss of Oliver, but are thankful his partner, Scott Brown survived the shootout, calling him a hero.
"Danny wouldn't want any other partner there that day, covering his six," said Capt. Dave Torgerson. "You did everything humanly possible to help your fallen brother."
Those who knew Danny hope his family knows the difference he made in his 15-year career as a deputy.
"I don't think they could really appreciate how many people he touched until they saw this today," Winn said.
A service will be held on Tuesday for Placer County Sheriff's Det. Mike Davis, who was killed in the same string of events that took Oliver's life. It will also be at the Adventure Christian Church in Roseville, starting at 10 a.m.