Merced ceremony honors officer slain in 2004

It’s been a dozen years, but the memory of a Merced officer and his sacrifice remain vivid and painful, according to the family and fellow officers gathered Friday to remember him.

Rosiland Gray used a tissue to dab the tears collecting at the corners of her eye as she remembered her older brother, Stephan Gray, who died April 15, 2004, at age 34. Gray was shot by a gang member who remained on the run for nearly three weeks before being captured.

“It’s never easy,” the 45-year-old said. “This day is always the hardest. We appreciate (the ceremony), because we’re not alone.”

Scores of people, including family, friends, city officials and others from around the area, gathered in front of the West 22nd St. police headquarters to watch the ceremony. There, a memorial also bears the seven-year veteran officer’s name and badge number, 106.

Along with the ceremony, the officer’s legacy is carried on by his three children, his sister said. She sees him when she looks into their faces.

“Especially Isaiah, because he has the thick eyebrows,” she said with a smile. “Stephan had those thick eyebrows.”

Officers raised an American flag and an “In Memoriam” flag before lowering them to half-staff during the ceremony.

Capt. Bimley West opened the service with a prayer, calling Gray a brother, friend and son. He went on to say Gray served the city with honor and courage.

“We will never forget what Stephan has done for this community,” West said.

Every year, Merced police and Gray’s family hold the memorial around April 15 to remember and honor Gray’s life and service. Two years ago, on the 10th anniversary of Gray’s death, the department unveiled a memorial to fallen officers in front of its headquarters.

During this year’s service, officers presented red roses to Gray’s mother, Lonather, and widow, Michelle.

A photo of Gray encircled by flowers was also part of the ceremony. Chief Norm Andrade explained that a table draped with a blue cloth held items of “significant and meaningful symbols of honor” for Gray’s memory.

“A police hat with white gloves are placed on the table to symbolize the absence of Stephan,” he said. “The lit white candle is placed on the table as a constant reminder that Stephan is not and will not be forgotten.”

This story was originally published April 15, 2016 at 5:18 PM with the headline "Merced ceremony honors officer slain in 2004."