MADISON (WKOW) -- Members of a Madison neighborhood hoped to start the healing process Sunday after a deadly officer-involved shooting earlier this month.
The purpose of the service was to provide a place for people to share their feelings and start moving in a positive direction after the tragedy. "We are definitely hoping that people will find a way to heal, to feel trust again -- of the neighborhood, of the police department," said Trinity Lutheran Pastor Susan Schneider.
Dozens gathered at the service early Sunday evening. They shared stories about 30-year-old Paul Heenan. Madison police say Heenan was mistaken for a burglar before he was shot to death by an officer outside a South Baldwin Street home.
Chief Noble Wray also attended Sunday's service. "Right now is a time for us to reflect on what took place. However, we must keep in mind that the district attorney has not finished his investigation and not decided. I have also not decided on my internal investigation so a lot still needs to take place," Chief Wray said.
Cameras weren't allowed inside the church but neighbors asked former Madison Police Chief David Couper to lead the service. Couper is now a priest and has, in the past, been publicly critical of law enforcement. "It's a terrible thing. This is the nightmare of just about every police chief," Couper said after the service. He believes this will be one of many healing gatherings.
