Community pays tribute to fallen Biloxi officer

The Gulf Coast community has come together to mourn the loss of Officer Robert McKeithen. Officer McKeithen was killed Sunday night.

“He is going to be missed by everybody.” A community devastated at the loss of the one of their heroes. Retired Police Officer David Keller said, “A brother in arms going down, it is always sad. It’s hard for the people of the community and it is hard for the law enforcement community.”

Officer Robert McKeithen had been a member of the Biloxi Police Department for 24 years. He was set to retire by the end of the year. Community member Jodie Wyrick said, “It just makes you realize how short life is and how important everyone is. Make sure you live every moment to the fullest and tell everyone that you love that you love them when you can.”

Officer McKeithen retired from the U.S. Air Force in July 1995 as a technical sergeant at Keesler Air Force Base. Members of the Air Force showed up at the Biloxi Police Station to pay tribute to Officer McKeithen.

As the day continued, thousands of members of the community came out to pay their respects and say their final farewells to the fallen officer. Ocean Springs Mayor Shea Dobson said, “I just want to tell the families stand strong. He didn’t die in vain so we pray for him.”

“They are only here to keep us safe. Why do people have to hurt them? I don’t understand it.”