MEMPHIS, Tenn. — People who knew Memphis Police Officer Joseph McKinney — and even those who didn’t — are sending his family an outpouring of love and support.
McKinney, also known as “Rusty,” was part of the Munford High School Band, graduating in 2016. The band shared its’ condolences and prayers with McKinney’s family, friends and colleagues.
Flags are at half-staff at the Raines MPD precinct and prayers are in the air.
“It makes me feel very, very, very, very, sad,” Memphian Chris Johnson said.
“We expect them to protect and serve,” Memphian Stella Hollis said. “I think it’s reasonable for them to expect us to protect and serve through prayer.”
Several people placed flowers on the squad car outside of the Raines police precinct in honor of Officer Joseph McKinney who was shot and killed while on-duty.
“It hurts tremendously,” Memphian Abbas Omar said. “He was simply doing his job trying to protect the citizens of our great city.”
Omar didn’t know Officer McKinney personally. Neither did lead singer of the Barkay’s — Chris Johnson — or his friend Ronald Vaughn.
Still, both spent the day with McKinney’s colleagues. They shared their condolences and a meal as officers mourned McKinney’s life.
“I had heard that the three police officers had gotten shot and one of them had died, so I decided to come over here and cook them up a little something — show my support," Ronald Vaughn said.
“Let 'em know we’re supporting them and this essential job is not unnoticed. We appreciate their services day in and day out," Johnson said.
Officer McKinney’s death is a tragedy leaving a mark on the Bluff City. A life taken, who Memphians have shown will never be forgotten.
“It’s so sad, it’s overwhelming," Hollis said.
“My deepest sympathy and condolences," Omar said.
The Memphis Police Association charitable foundation set up this fundraiser in his honor.