Skankey and Bennett died while were assisting the Flagstaff Police Department during a shooting incident near Mars Hill.
“This fundraiser was not only about financial support, though that support is vital. It’s about wrapping our arms around these families and making sure they know they are not walking this road alone. It’s about honoring the legacy of those who served and sacrificed by continuing to serve one another,” said Flagstaff Police Chief Sean Connolly. “When our community comes together like this, it sends a clear message: We remember. We care. And we stand united.”
More than 800 people attended the event. “While we are dealing with this tragedy and our loss, it’s very helpful to see the community and our sister agencies come together to support our fallen and their families at this BBQ,” said DPS Deputy Director Destin Coleman.
“The outpouring of support from the Flagstaff community and across Northern Arizona was truly overwhelming. Events like this reinforce how much our first responders and their sacrifices are valued,” said Michael Hunt, with the Arizona Fraternal Order of Police (FOP) Lodge 32. “We are grateful to everyone who attended, volunteered, donated and helped make this fundraiser such a meaningful success. On behalf of FOP Lodge 32 and our partners, thank you for helping us highlight the compassion and strength of our community.”
About 1,000 t-shirts were sold, with proceeds going directly to support the families, added Hunt.
“The Coconino County Sheriff’s Office extends our heartfelt condolences to the families, friends and colleagues of our fallen law enforcement brothers. Their sacrifice will never be forgotten,” said Coconino County Sheriff Bret Axlund. “We are deeply honored and grateful to see these events taking place, bringing our community together to remember, honor and support those who have given their lives in service. This BBQ stands as a powerful reminder of the unity, gratitude and family that define law enforcement.”
Skankey and Bennett died while were assisting the Flagstaff Police Department during a shooting incident near Mars Hill.
“I am deeply grateful, not just for the generosity shown, but for the continued commitment to supporting our surviving families in the days, months and years ahead,” said Chief Connolly. “That unity is our greatest strength.” FBN
By V. Ronnie Tierney, FBN
Donations can be made to the FOP 32 Foundation at https://fop32foundation.org.
Photo by V. Ronnie Tierney, Fresh Focuses Photography: Flagstaff Firefighter Kelsey Fortnam, Flagstaff Police Chief Sean Connolly and DPS Deputy Director Destin Coleman were among the hundreds honoring DPS Pilot Robert Skankey and DPS Trooper-Paramedic Hunter Bennett in Flagstaff last month.
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