When Officer Jeremy Henwood walked into a McDonald's on Aug. 6, 2011, he was approached by a young boy in need of extra change for some cookies. The officer struck up a conversation with the 13-year-old and bought him the treats before getting back in his patrol car.
Minutes later, Henwood was shot in the head while stopped at a traffic light on University Avenue in City Heights. He died the next day.
Five years later, his colleagues are honoring the fallen officer and his final act with a barbecue for the community.
The celebratory event comes just days after the funeral for Officer Jonathan De Guzman, who was shot to death in late July.
Community leader and activist Mark Arabo is funding the event and said it’s an opportunity for San Diegans to show the Police Department some much-needed support.
"It's a heart-breaking time for San Diego, and we want to show the Police Department and law enforcement that the community loves them, that we support them whole-heartedly," Arabo said. "And remind San Diegans that the ultimate sacrifices they make and their families make, just to keep us safe."
The 2:30 p.m. celebration at the Officer Jeremy Henwood Memorial Park is free and open to the public. Donations are not required but will be collected in honor of Henwood and De Guzman.
The event will begin with a memorial ceremony followed by food service. The officers will be the cooks.
