Ashley Guindon, a Virginia police officer who was shot and killed her first day on the job, was mourned by loved ones in her Massachusetts hometown Sunday.
Guindon's time as a police officer was cut tragically short, but she leaves behind a legacy of service. Police officers from across the region gathered at her wake in Agawam.
"She was a good role model for a lot of people," said Lowell Police Capt. Kevin Sullivan.
The sea of blue guided her family, loved ones and former colleagues from Virginia to western Massachusetts.
"I've been on almost 30 years, and it's the first time I've ever heard of anyone dying in the line of duty on the first day," Sullivan said.
The 28-year-old was shot and killed while responding to her first call as a Prince Willaim County officer.
It was a domestic violence call, one of the most dangerous for police officers.
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"I think we're also reminded of the apprehension that one feels when you don't know what's on the other side of the door," said U.S. Rep. Richard Neal of Massachusetts.
"When you find out that this stems from domestic violence, it's just real disappointing. It hits us all very hard," Sullivan said. "She was a young girl, she had her whole life in front of her, and it's a difficult situation for her family and friends and her co-workers."
Guindon was also a corporal in the U.S. Marine reserves and had a master's degree in forensic science.
Her funeral will be held Monday in Springfield, and thousands are expected to attend.
She will be buried in West Springfield next to her father, who was also a veteran.
