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Community mourns with Hendersonville Police Dept. over loss of officer

Posted at 4:52 PM, Dec 31, 2019
and last updated 2020-01-01 01:10:53-05

NASHVILLE, Tenn. — Following the tragic death of Hendersonville Police Officer Spencer Bristol, community members came together to show support for the department and Bristol's family.

In addition to groups of people raising money for Bristol's wife and child, numerous people donated flowers, food and well wishes to the department he served in.

A memorial formed outside the police department. Flowers were placed by the American flag that flew at half staff Tuesday. A man who said he knew Bristol since as early as high school said he felt compelled to bring a bouquet to the department.

READ MORE: Fund set up for fallen Hendersonville officer

"I knew him. He's a good guy. He's a strong guy and I know he's a veteran," said Colby Smith. Smith said he's a Sumner County paramedic and has worked on scenes throughout the years with Bristol.

"It hits deep," said Smith. "You wish there was something that you could do to help. It kind of makes you wonder how lucky you are to make it home after your shift. It makes you thankful for it if you have family."

A teacher from a nearby daycare also made a homemade token of support for Bristol and the PD.

"We created a badge with the blue line and all of their hand prints," said Brittany Hawkins. "We just want to lend them a helping hand in their time of need because they're there for us when we need them."

Dozens of people lined the streets of Hendersonville when Bristol's body was brought to the Memory Gardens, Tuesday afternoon. The fire department raised a large American flag over the street to show their support for a fallen fellow first responder.

Fire chief Scotty Bush said the department will find a way to help Bristol's family in the weeks to come.

PHOTOS: Procession for fallen Hendersonville officer