Widow of Deputy US Marshal killed in Charlotte shootout says killer 'did not have regard for human life'
CHARLOTTE, NORTH CAROLINA: The widow of Deputy US Marshal Thomas M "Tommy" Weeks, tragically killed in a shootout alongside three other law enforcement officers in Charlotte, addressed mourners at his Monday memorial service, including US Attorney General Merrick Garland.
"This tragedy was the result of someone who did not have any regard for human life," Kelly Weeks said of the killer, Terry Clark Hughes Jr., 39.
Hughes fatally shot Weeks, along with North Carolina Department of Adult Correction Officers Sam Poloche and William "Alden" Elliott, and CMPD Officer Joshua Eyer, from the second floor of his Galway Drive home on April 29.
Moreover, three other officers, identified as Chris Tolley, Mike Giglio, and Jack Blowers, sustained gunshot wounds but are currently in stable condition. Additionally, another officer, Justin Campbell, received treatment for a broken foot.
Remembering Thomas M Weeks
"Tommy's mission in life was to make the world safer and fight for justice," Kelly highlighted.
"So what do I need? I need this country to come together, to support our law enforcement officers so they can continue to fight for justice just like my husband did," she said. "Thank an officer every single day, encourage our children to show police officers the proper respect."
Describing her husband as a devoted father and husband, Kelly shared cherished memories of his thoughtfulness and care. Weeks had a 13-year career with the marshals service and had worked in Charlotte since 2014.
Attorney General Garland, moved by Kelly's strength, shared his unexpected encounter with her. "What I did not expect is that you would end the call by asking me what you could do to support the Marshal Service and the Justice Department in this time of immeasurable sadness," reported Fox.
Former FBI agent advocates for enhanced support of law enforcement
Former FBI agent Nicole Parker echoed Kelly's sentiments, calling for greater support for law enforcement.
"Until our country wakes up and shows respect, learns lessons from these tragedies, shares those lessons, and makes some changes, it's going to keep happening," Parker said.
"Until our country wakes up and shows respect, learns lessons from these tragedies, shares those lessons and makes some changes, it's going to keep happening," Parker said. "That's why everyone's leaving - law enforcement officers don't feel like anyone has our backs."
President Biden, during his visit to Charlotte, emphasized, "We must do more to protect our law enforcement officers," advocating for measures to combat gun violence.
"That means funding them – so they have the resources they need to do their jobs and keep us safe," the President said.
Biden added, "And it means taking additional action to combat the scourge of gun violence. Now. Leaders in Congress need to step up so that we ban assault weapons and high-capacity magazines, require safe storage of guns and pass universal background checks and a national red flag law. Enough is enough."
