A fallen officer from the Bluffton Police Department went beyond the badge in order to help his local community.
In the morning hours of March 31st, Officer Dominic Francis, 42-years-old, was struck and killed by a vehicle during a pursuit. The three suspects who were in the car are currently in custody.
Francis was setting up a speed trap before he was struck on I-75 near exit 142.
When asked about Francis and his impact on the Village of Bluffton, many stated that he was a pillar of the community, pointing to his work outside of the badge.
"He was with Cory Rawson Schools, he coached softball, football... he was a weight trainer... helped out with the basketball program. Kind of a jack of all trades," said Burkholder. "He had a heart of gold, and he will be sorely missed."
"Very sad day for not only the residents of Bluffton, but his family, the brotherhood of law enforcement," said Richard Johnson, Bluffton Mayor. "I want to thank the family, let them know the village will do everything they can to help the family out and we send our condolences to all of those involved."
Officer Francis was with the Bluffton Police Department for nine years.
You can watch the news conference courtesy of WTOL at https://www.facebook.com/events/4941261575956965/
