A memorial fund has been established for Officer Gus Vegas’s family through the Richmond Police Officers Association: Mechanics Bank, Account #041305213, Routing #121102036.
The family of a Bay Area police officer who was fatally shot during a domestic dispute at his home early Thursday says they forgive the man accused of killing him, the father of the victim's 6-year-old grandson.
Gus Vegas, who served the Richmond Police Department, was shot and killed early inside his Vallejo home while off duty. Investigators say the 58-year-old was gunned down by 30-year-old Robert Vega at about 4:30 a.m.
Heartbroken and distraught, Vegas's wife Sandra said Friday the suspect was very close to the family, and even called Vegas "dad."
"We don't know what happened," she said. "But we have complete love and forgiveness for him."
The family of the slain officer addressed reporters Friday and shared their grief, remembering a husband, father and police officer who put others first.
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"As a police officer, he devoted his life to protecting others," said Joe Vegas, the victim's son. "He ultimately sacrificed in protecting his family."
"Gus and Sandra have a great capacity for love," said Scott Peterson, the family's pastor.
Peterson, a close friend of Vegas, says the officer had a calling to helping others and his role as police officer and protector was his passion.
"He was a good husband a devoted father," Peterson said. "He loved his kids loved his grandkids. He loved people in such a passionate way."
Vegas leaves behind his wife, 10 children and 20 grandchildren.
