CINCINNATI, OH (FOX19) -
An emotional tribute was held Tuesday evening at Great
American Ball Park.
The Cincinnati Reds honored Jason Ellis, a former K-9
officer who was shot and killed in Bardstown, Ky. last month.
Dozens of friends and family
members were in attendance.
Ellis' wife and kids were on the field, his 8-year-old son threw out the first pitch and all his children
were named honorary captains.
The City of Cincinnati honored those
that risk their lives every day, including those who paid the ultimate
price to protect others. Sergeant Robert Rose with the Covington Police
Department says when the funeral was held for Ellis, their department sent
several officers to show their support.
"One of us gets hurt, one of us gets
killed, we all feel that pain. My heart goes out to the family, friends, the
other officers of the Bardstown Police Department," said Rose.
Many baseball fans in attendance were also happy
to see the Reds going that extra mile for the Ellis family.
"Very tragic by all means but yeah it's
a good deal with what's going on with the Reds and how they're reaching out for
the family," said Cincinnati Firefighter Doug Wonder.
"I think it shows the Reds character, as
a franchise it shows their character. That's outstanding to me," added former
Air Force Firefighter Carey Cole.
In addition, Coach Dusty Baker and several Reds players
embraced the Ellis family. Jason was
a former minor leaguer with the Reds, but decided on a career in law
enforcement.
Two men familiar with public service say any chance these
individuals are recognized is special.
"It never gets old. It's a great thing
that the Reds are doing for us. It's nice to get everyone together," said Wonder.
"Not a whole lot of people understand
what they go through on a day to day basis and I think it's fantastic that the
city is honoring them," added Cole.
Kentucky State Police (KSP) say it appears more than one person was
involved in the killing, and that it was the result of detailed planning.
Police say they're following multiple tips but don't have any suspects.
KSP Post 4 has set up a new email account for anyone with information on Ellis' murder. The email address is EllisCaseEtips@ky.gov. This email account is monitored by investigators and will expedite any tips or leads regarding Ofc. Ellis' case. Anyone with information is encouraged to use this address.
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