Crime & Safety

WPD, WPI Officers Attend Gannon Funeral, Burns Bridge Blue

Worcester officers joined hundreds across the country to salute and pay respects to the fallen Yarmouth officer.

WORCESTER, MA—The Worcester Police Department joined thousands of mourners, including law enforcement officers from across the country, honored fallen Yarmouth police Officer Sean Gannon on Wednesday. Gannon, 32, was shot and killed Thursday in Barnstable while serving a warrant to a career criminal. His funeral was held Wednesday at St. Pius X Church in Yarmouth. Hundreds of officers lined the streets to pay tribute.

"Our thoughts and prayers remain with Officer Gannon’s family and our brothers and sisters of the Yarmouth Police Dept," wrote Worcester police.

Gannon was a K9 officer. His dog, Nero, was also shot Thursday. The animal survived.

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Police on Wednesday posthumously promoted Gannon to sergeant.

"Sergeant Gannon leaves a legacy of high moral integrity, infectious humor, and collaborative work," Yarmouth police said in a statement. "Whatever Sean did, he gave 100 percent of himself."

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The accused shooter, Thomas Latanowich, 29, of Somerville, was arrested and charged with murder and mistreating a police dog. He pleaded not guilty to the charges and was ordered held without bail. Police said Latanowich has 125 criminal charges on his record.

Jason Claffey, Patch staff, contributed to this report

Photo via Worcester Police Department

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