DANVILLE, Ohio (WCMH)–More than 100 people–Danville residents, family, friends, even law enforcement officers and EMS personnel–gathered for a candlelight vigil Tuesday.

They were paying tribute to Tom Cottrell, a police officer who was killed late Saturday.

Herschel Ray Jones III is suspected in the officer’s death.

In their own words, the community mourned Officer Cottrell.

“This crime didn’t have to happen. And the world just got a lot darker. That’s all I’ve got to say.”–Tonya Elliott, Cottrell’s life partner.

“I’ve know Tom. I know all of the police officers here. I’ve known them for a longtime. He was a wonderful person. A great personality. Great sense of humor.”–Leah Colopy, Danville resident.

“Know in your heart that this was a good man. A small town man. Doing what small town men do-coaching kids, raising a family, doing his job the way he always has.”–Robert Dile, Danville mayor.

“He spent many nights not even getting paid to do his job. And came out to serve his community. And we are here to say thank you.”–Elizabeth, Danville resident.

“Although we’re grieving with you and we hurt as you do, we’re not going to forget what he would want us to continue to do. And that would be to keep smiling, keep working, keep bringing the community together.”–Officer Kevin Henthorn, Danville Police Department.