Hundreds gather to mourn murdered officer
GWINNETT COUNTY, Ga. - Hundreds packed a Gwinnett County church to pay tribute to a true hero and support the family of 30-year-old Officer Antwan Toney.
Members of the 94th Gwinnett County police academy class walked on stage, each carrying a candle in honor of their slain classmate Officer Antwan Toney.
"Blessed are the peacemakers for they will be called the children of God," Police Academy Instructor Sgt. John Bailey said. "Toney was definitively a peacemaker."
On stage and in the auditorium at Gwinnett Church were people whose lives were touched by Toney.
His prayer vigil brought hundreds including tow truck drivers who draped an American flag in his honor and members of Gwinnett Search and Rescue with firsthand experience with Toney.
"His presence was just great and it's just hard to see what's going on today," Gwinnett Search & Rescue's Angel Alanso said.
Officer Toney had just turned 30 and was days away from his three year anniversary with the force when he was gunned down and killed.
His sudden passing brought those who knew him and others who didn't to his prayer vigil.
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The vigil meant prayers for Officer Toney, his family, the community, and law enforcement, who took a moment to be recognized
The vigil ended with everyone in silence and a candle in hand, in honor and remembrance of badge number 1808.
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