Wednesday evening, Town Square Plaza in Kent was transformed into a place to pay tribute.
"I really look forward to gathering here today to pay tribute to someone who protected us all," said Cecil Boyd, a volunteer who helped set up for the evening vigil.
It's the first community gathering to remember Officer Diego Moreno, who was killed in the line of duty on Sunday.
Officers from several neighboring police departments arrived, wearing mourning bands across their badges. Posters with Officer Moreno's picture were placed on tables so community members could write messages for the fallen officer's family.
Police Chief Rafael Padilla told the crowd, "Our first purpose here is to honor the life of Officer Diego Moreno."
"He was a hero to his wife, his children, the Kent Police Department, and this community," said Mayor Dana Ralph. "While people ran away from burning buildings, he literally ran in and saved one of our elderly residents. When responding to a narcotics call and finding an overdosed resident, he didn't give up on them. He managed to give life-saving drugs and saved his life."
One a night when words of comfort are hard to find, one message was clear. Officer Moreno touched many lives.
He was also a doting dad to his two young kids and a loving husband to wife, Shelly, who thanked the community for their support.
"Thank you to my family and friends who assisted me in every aspect of daily life," said Moreno. "Thank you to everyone who has reached out. I have read every card and comment. Thank you for thinking of us during this time."
The community is invited to attend a memorial service for Officer Moreno on Tuesday, July 31. It is happening at 1 p.m. at Showare Center in Kent.
Donations for Officer Moreno's family can be made at any U.S. Bank location under the "Diego Moreno Memorial Fund."
