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Statue Unveiled In Honor Of Detective Killed In Dorner Shootout

LAKE ARROWHEAD (CBSLA.com) — A statue honoring San Bernardino County Sheriff's detective Jeremiah MacKay was unveiled Sunday in Lake Arrowhead.

The bronze sculpture is the creation of local sculptor, Khachik Khachatouryan, and depicts MacKay with his hand over his heart.

A 15-year veteran of the department, MacKay was killed in the line of duty on Feb. 12, during a gun battle allegedly with ex-LAPD officer Christopher Dorner.

The unveiling at the Lake Arrowhead Village was attended by MacKay's widow Lynette and their two small children, a boy and a girl.

It was a standing room only crowd. By proclamation, the city decided September 1 will always be known as Jeremiah MacKay Day.

Town officials were originally going to put the statue outside police headquarters but told CBS2's Greg Mills the park location was chosen so that many more people could see it.

The statue was placed near a plaque and rose garden honoring MacKay's grandmother, Audrey MacKay, who was instrumental in the development of the town.

The area is now known as MacKay's Court.

It's a fitting tribute said MacKay's mother, Dawn MacKay.

"This is perfect because he was always here, and we were always there. Like I said, our memories are here," said Dawn.

Jeremiah's widow spoke to the crowd and choked back tears.

"Thank you guys for all your support. It really means a lot to us," said Lynette.

MacKay's father, Alan MacKay, appreciated the turnout and the statue.

"It won't fill the holes in our hearts, but it does help us to know how much people appreciated Jeremiah and his service," said Alan.

 

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