Prayer Vigil Held for Slain Officer

Wednesday morning, the community and police department of Lancaster gathered for a prayer vigil for slain officer Craig Shaw at First United Methodist Church.

Officer Shaw was killed in a gun battle Sunday with David O'Neal Brown Jr., the son of Dallas Police Chief David Brown. Shaw responded to a shots fired call before the volley of gunfire broke out. Another man, 23-year-old Jeremy McMillian, was killed prior to Shaw's arrival, Dallas County Sheriff Lupe Valdez said.

In front of a standing room only congregation at the First United Methodist Church of Lancaster, there were prayers for strength and comfort for the families of both victims. Also, Chief Keith Humphrey offered words of encouragement for the officers who were at his side when Shaw was killed.

"You couldn't have done anything different or better," said Humphrey.

"The worst thing we could do to dishonor Craig is to stop doing what we've been doing," said Humphrey.

Prayers were extended to Dallas Police Chief David Brown and his family.

"As a father, much less as a police chief, we pray you would give him strength during this tumultuous time," said Dr. Charles Dixon, pastor, First Baptist Church of Lancaster.

Neither Mrs. Shaw or her children were at the prayer vigil. Extended family members say it's still too difficult.

"The hardest thing to do in a time like this is to face others and deal with your own pain," says Trina Howell, Craig Shaw's cousin.

She says the family is aware many people are praying for them. Howell says it is a tremendous comfort.

On Thursday night, a candlelight vigil will be held for Shaw at 8 p.m. at the Lancaster Police Department. Shaw's wake is scheduled for Friday from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. with the funeral to follow on Saturday morning at 11.

Both the wake and funeral will be held at Inspiring Body of Christ Church.

McMillian's family will hold a wake Thursday at 7 p.m. His funeral is scheduled for Friday morning at The Potter's House.