California

San Jose Police, City Prepare for Memorial Honoring Slain Officer

San Jose is getting ready to host what is expected to be a huge memorial event Thursday in honor of Michael Johnson, a police officer who was shot and killed last week.

The funeral is bringing top state officials as well as law enforcement agencies from around the country. San Jose Police Department's top brass are coordinating security at the event, while making sure there are enough officers on the street -- all while trying to make sure Johnson gets a proper goodbye.

In addition to Thursday's funeral, there are several other smaller tributes including at San Jose Regional Medical Center, where all the emergency room lights are blue.

"This was his beat," said Luis Maciel, a registered nurse at the hospital. "One of our fellow brothers."

Noe Longoria, who supervises security at San Jose Regional Medical Center, worked with Johnson in two capacities -- first as a police officer before Longoria retired from the force, then as part of the response team at the medical center.

"He was very dedicated, but more importantly this was a person who had promise," Longoria said of Johnson. "There's a lot of promise that was taken away from us."

San Jose police said every single law enforcement agency is offering to help staff city streets on Thursday.

A memorial for Johnson was held late Friday on Senter Road. More than 100 people showed up to the vigil held near the scene of the fatal shooting.

Another memorial for Johnson was held that night in the courtyard at San Jose City Hall and was hosted by Star of David Ministries and the Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Association.

Thursday's memorial service for Johnson will be held at 11 a.m. at San Jose's SAP Center.

In addition, Owen Nolan, a former San Jose Shark who is a part owner of the Brittania Arms, is hosting a fundraiser April 2 at the restaurant, located at 5027 Almaden Expressway.

The San Jose Police Officers’ Association is helping raise fund to provide financial assistance to his family.

Checks can be mailed payable to the SJPOACF at: 1151 N. 4th St., San Jose, CA 95112 or online.

Nannette Miranda contributed to this report.

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