Lakewood, Colorado community mourns fallen agent; police department welcomes donations – CBS News

Lakewood, Colorado community mourns fallen agent; police department welcomes donations  CBS News

Flowers, handwritten cards and candles surrounded a Lakewood Police Department police agent Flowers, handwritten cards and candles surrounded a Lakewood Police Department police agent's vehicle on Friday, as hundreds of people gathered outside police headquarters to pay their respects to fallen police Agent Nick Graham. The gathering brought people together from across the community, including families with young children, law enforcement personnel and residents who wanted to show their support following Graham's death. "It is just tragic; there really are no words," said Lauren Linnertz, a former Lakewood police agent. For some, the decision to visit was prompted by seeing the tragedy unfold online. "I heard about it on social media.

So I wanted to come pay respects as well," said Samantha Parnariello, a community member. Others said they felt compelled to be there to honor Graham's sacrifice. "I wanted to come pay my respects. It is just devastating what happened," said Erick Castelan, a community member. For Linnertz, the loss carries a personal connection. She spent years serving as an agent with Lakewood Police Department, and her husband continues to serve. She brought her daughter to the gathering, where the young girl placed flowers near the agent's vehicle before embracing her mother, who was wiping away tears. "It is your worst nightmare," Linnertz said. "It is a dangerous job."