Thousands attend Cpl. Szuba, K-9 Ricky’s visitation

MISHAWAKA — To know what Cpl.l Jim Szuba meant to the city he served and protected so many years, all you would need to do is take a look at the line of people on the Bethel College campus Thursday who came to say thanks for his service and ultimate sacrifice. “I’m just here to pay tribute like everyone else,” said one man. “He’s a fine individual who gave his life for duty.” One woman waited in line at the fallen officer’s visitation to give the Szuba family a glass angel. They’re in her prayers along with everyone else who were touched by tragedy so close to home. Szuba, and his K9 partner Ricky died Saturday night when their car was struck by an SUV driven by 31-year-old Shawn Devine. Devine was being chased by another Mishawaka police officer for speeding. Szuba was on his way to help with the pursuit. As community members paid tribute in person Thursday, many are also showing their thanks with decals in memory of the fallen officer and his partner. At Smith Graphics, marketing and sales manager TJ Jorgensen said they’d printed 500 to begin with,but quickly ran out. They are printing more to be handed out at the Mishawaka Police Department. People weren’t the only ones standing in line at the visitation, so were a half dozen disaster management dogs. “We also have dogs coming from Michigan and Illinois, said Jean Marie Thompson who explained the dogs respond to disasters from tornados and floods, to sudden deaths like Szuba’s. The dogs were there for comfort and care. Hundreds of brothers in blue from across the country were also there to pay their respects. “Law enforcement is basically a family,” said Sgt. Bill Kraus with the South Bend Police Department “And when one dies we all lose a piece of us.” The Szuba family released a statement Thursday thanking the community for its prayers and support. “The Szuba family would like to thank everyone; family, friends, fellow officers and the entire community for the outpouring of support. They have asked to continue to remember them in your thoughts and prayers. They are greatly appreciated and a source of comfort during this difficult time.”