1 year later, MCSO Deputy Coleman remembered - WFXG FOX54 Augusta - Your News One Hour Earlier

1 year later, MCSO Deputy Coleman remembered

There were plenty of tears in Anthem Tuesday night remembering Bill Coleman, the Maricopa County sheriff's deputy gunned down on a burglary call one year ago to the day. The community held a vigil at the scene to pay him respects.

Upwards of 500 people attended the vigil, including Sheriff Joe Arpaio, Phoenix police Chief Daniel Garcia and, of course, Coleman's family.

"Deputy Coleman's son is in our pack and it's something that we'll probably remember for the rest of our lives," said Cliff Brace of Boy Scout Pack 431. He was one of hundreds who came out Tuesday night in remembrance of 20-year MCSO veteran Coleman.

He was shot responding to a call in Anthem in the early hours of Jan. 8, 2012, by a man in a minivan police believe was responsible for two other murders, as well. Coleman left behind a wife, four kids and a heartbroken community.

"Not only did he patrol this area, but he also lived here," Brace said.

After MCSO and Honor Guard paid their respects, a deputy read a letter written by Coleman's wife.

"There was so much we didn't know a year ago, so much uncertainty, how to live without a husband," the deputy read.

As MCSO Fox 1 helicopter flew over the somber crowd, Deputy Ruben Garcia lay in the hospital, another victim of senseless violence.

"Our prayers go out to him and his family hoping he recovers," Arpaio said.

They also unveiled a permanent memorial for Coleman, so anyone who drives by or walks by the Anthem shopping complex will remember his ultimate sacrifice.