Beech Grove Honors Fallen Officer Brian Elliott with Candlelight Vigil

Community leaders share emotional tributes to the officer killed in the line of duty.

Published on Feb. 23, 2026

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Hundreds gathered in Beech Grove, Indiana for a candlelight vigil to honor Officer Brian Elliott, who was shot and killed on Monday while responding to a domestic call. Beech Grove's mayor, police chief, and other community members shared heartfelt tributes, describing the range of emotions experienced over the past 48 hours and the lasting legacy Elliott leaves behind.

Why it matters

The tragic death of Officer Elliott has deeply impacted the Beech Grove community, where he served and was known for his dedication to public service. The candlelight vigil was an opportunity for residents, fellow officers, and others to come together and mourn the loss of a local hero.

The details

During the vigil, speakers highlighted Elliott's commitment to his job and his role in inspiring the next generation of police officers. Community members, including those in criminal justice programs, expressed how Elliott's sacrifice has affected them personally. The vigil took place at the location where Elliott began his final shift on Monday.

  • Officer Elliott was shot and killed on Monday while responding to a domestic call.
  • The candlelight vigil was held on Wednesday, two days after Elliott's death.

The players

James Coffman

Beech Grove Mayor

Michael Maurice

Beech Grove Police Chief

Rick Snyder

President of the Indianapolis Fraternal Order of Police

Robert Stockton

Works in the jail division of the Jennings County Sheriff's Office

Parker Pettigrew

Community member

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What they’re saying

“We mourn. We gather. We grieve. But most importantly, as a community, we remember.”

— James Coffman, Beech Grove Mayor (fox59.com)

“He wore the same badge as everybody else does, so I came down to pay respects.”

— Robert Stockton, Works in the jail division of the Jennings County Sheriff's Office (fox59.com)

“This candlelight vigil is to send a clear and convincing message that while evil does exist, so do heroes like Brian Elliott.”

— Rick Snyder, President of the Indianapolis Fraternal Order of Police (fox59.com)

“On behalf of Erin and the rest of the family, they hear you. They see you. They feel the love and support.”

— Michael Maurice, Beech Grove Police Chief (fox59.com)

What’s next

Over the next couple of days, the Beech Grove Police Department will continue sharing stories about Officer Elliott to allow more people to learn about him and know 'he was more than a badge.'

The takeaway

The candlelight vigil for Officer Brian Elliott demonstrated the Beech Grove community's deep respect and appreciation for his service and sacrifice. His legacy will continue to inspire future generations of police officers, and the outpouring of support shows how one officer's death can profoundly impact an entire town.