Candlelight Vigil For Md. Officer Killed In Shootout

LANDOVER, Md. (WJZ) -- A fallen hero is honored a week after he is gunned down. Prince George's County Detective Jacai Colson lost his life outside the department's Landover police station.

Tracey Leong explains the outpouring of support to remember the slain officer.

The tribute took place where Detective Colson was mistakenly shot and killed by a fellow officer a week ago.

A somber moment outside Prince George's County Police Headquarters. A community is coming together to honor 28-year-old Detective Jacai Colson.

"It means the world, and I think it is how we survive this and how we keep doing our jobs," said Major Elaine Moore, Prince George's County Police Department.

Loved ones, friends and fellow officers bowed their heads at 4:30 p.m. Sunday--the exact time the gun battle broke out a week ago, killing Officer Colson.

"There is no division between the police department or the community--everybody joins hands, comforts one another and moves forward as one," said John Teletchea, president, Fraternal Order of Police.

Moving forward with heavy hearts after Colson lost his life in a chaotic shootout outside the Landover police station.

Michael Ford planned the attack with his brothers, Elijah and Malik. Michael wanted to die in a battle with police and have his brothers record it.

Instead, undercover, Officer Colson was shot by a fellow officer who had mistaken Colson as a threat.

The station is still stained by the vicious attack.

The department has decided not to remove those scars--a painful reminder for the danger that exists beyond the station doors.

"And their undaunting dedication to their oath, to protecting this community is something that needs to be honored and remembered," said Teletchea.

A memorial continues to grow just feet from where Colson lost his life. Former and current officers, near and far, are paying their respects to a hero who bravely gave his life in the line of duty.

"Anyone who wants to enter in law enforcement, I thank them and I congratulate them," said Kenneth Savoid, retired Prince George's County police officer. "This is a tough and a very, very dangerous job."

Officer Jacai Colson will be laid to rest in Pennsylvania Monday, March 28. His services are not open to the public.

Police have not publicly identified the officer who fired at Colson.