Newport News, Va. - Four weeks ago, Brian Jones, a loving father, husband, and Norfolk police officer was shot and killed while responding to a call.
Friday night, his wife and three children were given gift baskets at a fundraiser in the officer's memory.
"They're eyes just lit up which was great. Each of them got their own personalized basket based on what they like," said Erika Matthews, with Backing the Thin Line.
The spaghetti dinner and silent auction was put on by Backing the Thin Line, a group that helps support the families of first responders killed on the job in Hampton Roads.
The saying goes it's better to give than receive. It held true with the goodies the kids and Jones' wife got. "Of course she broke down in tears, and then our tears came, that was the highlight," Matthews said.
For four hours a steady stream of people trickled in. People pitched in to help, knowing any bit of personal sacrifice was small compared to what Brian Jones gave.
Today, there was a soccer tournament from 9 a.m. until 5 p.m. at Powhatan field on the ODU campus.
Part of the proceeds from both events will go to Officer Jones' family.
On July 12 there will be a benefit ride for officer Jones' family.
The ride will begin at Sunrise Cycles on East Little Creek Rd. in Norfolk.
Registration will start at 9 am and start time is 10:30 am.
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