Provo plans vigil, funeral for fallen officer
Jan 8, 2019, 8:19 AM | Updated: Dec 30, 2022, 11:28 am
Officials hold a press conference in the Provo City Council chambers announcing the shooting death of Provo police officer Joseph Shinners on Sunday, Jan. 6, 2019. (Photo: Scott G Winterton, Deseret News)
(Photo: Scott G Winterton, Deseret News)
PROVO, Utah — Nearly every light pole and street pole in Provo has a blue ribbon tied on it, as the community prepares for a vigil Wednesday night and a funeral on Saturday for Master Officer Joseph Shinners.
His family spoke to KSL TV about the kind of man he was.
“Words can’t describe what kind of a guy he was. He was just outstanding, compassionate and was out there doing the good in the world you know,” said brother Michael Shinners.
“He’s always looked out for me and taken care of Kaylyn. Since we’re all family he’s taken care of all of us. He’s been part of our family,” said brother-in-law Kyle Swanson.
They say they are thankful for all the community support, but they hope as people remember his sacrifice, they will have more appreciation for police.
Utah representative and former Provo Mayor John Curtis is expected to pay tribute on the floor of the US House on Tuesday. Curtis says Shinners was a true hero who gave the ultimate sacrifice.
Police say a career criminal named Matthew Hoover shot and killed Officer Shinners in Orem late Saturday night.
The vigil is set for Wednesday at 7 PM outside the Provo Police Department. Then Officer Shinners will be laid to rest this Saturday, January 12th. Funeral Services will be held at the UCCU Event Center at Utah Valley University at 11:00 a.m.
