First responders across Southwest Virginia lined overpasses for a solemn affair on Monday as the region saluted a fallen Big Stone Gap Police officer.
On his 29th birthday, Big Stone Gap Officer Michael Chandler was killed by a fugitive sought on a probation violation charge.
On Monday, Chandler’s body was returned to Wise County from the medical examiner’s office in Roanoke. The police escort that traveled to Big Stone Gap was led by Chandler’s wife, Deputy Natasha Chandler of the Wise County Sheriff’s Office.
In Wythe County, members of the Wytheville Police Department, Wythe County Sheriff’s Office, Bland County Sheriff’s Office, Virginia Conservation Police, Wytheville Fire and Rescue, Speedwell Fire Department and Galax Fire Department stood at attention as the convoy passed through on Interstate 81.
Smyth County Deputy Cole McAllister was part of the escort leaving from Roanoke. Meanwhile, members of the Smyth Sheriff’s Office joined Rural Retreat Fire/EMS and community members on the Burgundy Lane overpass near mile marker 55, on the line with Wythe County, to pay their respects.
The Marion Police Department also joined the hundreds of law enforcement officers “as witnesses to the bitter sacrifice of Officer Chandler,” Chief John P. Clair said. “These moments should vividly remind our communities of the dangers that all police officers are prepared to face to protect the residents we serve. Our agency truly mourns with all those connected to the Big Stone Gap Police Department and their community.”
Farther down the interstate, members of the Chilhowie Police and Fire/EMS departments, along with the Adwolf Fire Department, Smyth County Animal Control, Smyth County Emergency Management and the Saltville Police and Fire departments, set up at Exit 39 to honor Chandler.
Chilhowie Police Officer Austin Millsaps, who was a classmate of Chandler’s at the police academy, joined the procession from Chilhowie to Big Stone Gap.
For those looking to help, monetary donations to Chandler’s family can be made to Deputy Natasha Chandler, c/o Wise County Sheriff’s Office at P.O. box 916, Wise VA 24293.
The town of Big Stone Gap has placed Chandler’s patrol car in Miner’s Park and welcome the public to stop by and pay their respect.
