Metro Detroit law enforcement gathered Sunday to honor Cpl. Mohamed Said, who was killed in the line of duty nearly a year ago.
Officers from across the region participated in a memorial ride, beginning at the First Responders Memorial in Plymouth before ending in Melvindale, where Said lost his life during a routine stop on July 21, 2024.
Despite gray skies and intermittent rain, police cruisers and motorcyclists lined up for the procession, their sirens echoing through the streets as a tribute to their fallen colleague.
“There are days to where our officers are down and then there are days we’re able to focus and move forward,” Melvindale Police Chief Robert Kennaley said.
For Said’s family, the past year has been marked by profound grief.
“It’s been a tough year and it’s going to be a tough life losing the oldest son and oldest brother for the family,” said Ahmed Said, brother of the slain officer.
According to prosecutors, the incident began when Said stopped Michael Lopez for discarding a cigarette near a car wash. When Said requested identification, Lopez allegedly fled the scene, jumping a neighborhood fence.
During the ensuing pursuit, Said deployed his stun gun before engaging in a physical struggle with Lopez in a nearby yard.
Prosecutors say Lopez reached for a weapon during the confrontation, leading to the officer’s death.
Lopez faces multiple charges, including murder of a police officer, which carries a maximum sentence of life in prison.
“We have good days. We have bad days. We can’t believe it’s been a year... seems like yesterday,” Chief Kennaley said.
The memorial ride included a stop at the car wash where the fatal encounter occurred. Melvindale police parked a cruiser at the location as a tribute to Said’s service and sacrifice.