Today, the Roswell community is preparing to lay to rest 24-year-old Officer Jeremy Labonte, who was tragically killed in the line of duty last Friday. In a somber tribute, a funeral service is set to take place at the Roswell United Methodist Church, as reported by FOX5 Atlanta. Labonte's squad car, now a makeshift memorial adorned with flowers and notes, stands as a testament to the deep loss felt in the city.
Mourners and supporters have been expressing their condolences and respect for the fallen officer, with one stating, "It’s such a sad, sad time," and another affirming, "It’s just the right thing to do," and "I feel like I know him," as per a report by FOX5 Atlanta. This afternoon, the public is invited to watch a procession leaving Lebanon Baptist Church at approximately 1:45 p.m., heading to the church for the service at 3 p.m.
The backdrop of this tragic event began when Labonte responded to a call at the King Market shopping center on Market Boulevard. He encountered 23-year-old Edward Espinoza in the parking lot, who is accused of fatally shooting Labonte several times, as noted by the Atlanta News First. Espinoza now faces charges including murder, aggravated assault against a law enforcement officer, and a weapons charge.
In remembrance of his bravery and dedication, the public is welcome to pay their respects along various roads, including Crabapple Road, Canton Street, Atlanta Street, and Mimosa Boulevard. Espinoza’s confrontation with Labonte has undoubtedly left an indelible mark on all who knew him, as his obituary poignantly noted. Today, with live streaming available on the city’s website and FOX5Atlanta.com, a wider audience can join in honoring his legacy from afar.
Following the public ceremony, Labonte will be privately laid to rest tomorrow in Lithia Springs. In light of this recent tragedy, a fund has been established through PayPal by the Roswell Police Department and the Friends of Roswell Police to aid the Labonte family during this difficult time. As Jeremy Labonte's name joins the mournful chronicle of officers killed in the line of service, his courage, loyalty, and kindness remain enduringly christened in the grateful memory of Roswell.
