ORTONVILLE, Mich. – The flags were at half staff at the Oakland County Sheriff’s Department as hundreds gathered to pay tribute to a beloved deputy who was killed during a pursuit Thanksgiving morning.
"We were supposed to have a long life together. (We) were robbed of that," said Sonja Overall, the wife of the slain deputy.
A grieving community gathered in Ortonville to remember Deputy Eric Overall.
"He is going to be missed by so many," Sonja Overall said. "My heart not only hurts for (the) community and department -- it’s not just me that is affected by tragedy."
Blue ribbons were tied to almost every lamppost and tree around town. Sonja Overall said the response has been overwhelming.
"This is mind blowing, to say the least, to see the outpouring of love and support from the sheriff and department," she said. "It’s been a Godsend."
The 50-year-old was a father, had served on the force for more than two decades and was a school liaison officer.
"He did what he did out of the kindness of his heart, not for recognition," Sonja Overall said. "He wore his heart on his sleeve."
Eric Overall was killed early Thanksgiving morning during a chase. He had deployed stop sticks and backed into a grassy area when he was hit.
Lapeer County deputies were trying to stop the driver, who had spoken with officers at a jail and nearby prison, claiming to be God.
Officials said they believe the driver intentionally hit Eric Overall.
"He was trying to safely stop a chase so no one got hurt, and colleagues say he would rather give his life than have that chase continue and kill someone else," Sheriff Michael Bouchard said.
On Saturday, Christopher Berak, 22, was charged with first-degree premeditated homicide and murder of a peace officer. The judge denied him bond.
Sunday evening was about honoring a life taken too soon
"The support of the community helps lift them emotionally and through prayer," Bouchard said. "(A) lot of people are hurting."