More than 100 gather to honor fallen Merced police officer

Michelle Gray wiped tears from her cheek Wednesday morning as Merced police officers raised the American flag above the memorial to her fallen husband, Stephan, on the 11th anniversary of his line-of-duty death.

Merced police Officer Stephan Gray, 34, was gunned down April 15, 2004, while chasing a gang member who ran during a traffic stop. The killer was captured after a nearly three-week manhunt, was convicted of murder and remains on death row. Gray is survived by his wife, Michelle, and their three children.

More than 100 people, including his friends, family, and top city and county officials, attended the memorial for Gray on Wednesday outside the Police Department on West 22nd Street. The size of the gathering surprised and comforted Gray’s mother, Lonather.

“It’s amazing to see all these people still remembering him all these years later,” she said after the ceremony. “It’s hard to deal with a death in any manner, but especially when a mother loses a son; it’s just horrible. There isn’t a day I don’t think about him.”

Lonather Gray said she took some comfort knowing her son’s sacrifice for Merced still resonates deeply with its residents.

“He loved being a peace officer; it’s wonderful to see all the people of Merced still love him,” she said.

Michelle Gray spoke during the ceremony, also remarking on the years that have passed since her husband’s death. “It’s been such a long time, 11 years ago, and it feels like yesterday,” she said. “But then I look at how the children have grown, and realize how long he’s been gone, and how much he’s missed.”

Michelle Gray said she was asked recently whether attending the annual memorial caused her more grief or pain. “I think not going would make me sad; if he was somehow forgotten, that would make me sad,” she said.

Police Chief Norman Andrade said Gray’s friends and colleagues would “be forever grateful” for his sacrifice and his service. “He answered the sacred call of duty and paid the ultimate price,” Andrade said.

Capt. Tom Trindad said Gray should always be remembered as a talented, gifted officer. “Please continue to keep Stephan’s family in your hearts and prayers,” the police captain said.

Gray’s sister, Rosiland, said she also was grateful for the turnout from the public and for the Merced police officers who organized the memorial.

“I appreciate every time you come out and honor my brother,” she told the officers. “You be safe out there, too.”

This story was originally published April 15, 2015 at 7:15 PM with the headline "More than 100 gather to honor fallen Merced police officer."