Mourners Honor LAPD Officer, Wife Shot to Death at Home
A Los Angeles police officer and his wife, who allegedly were shot and killed by their son, were memorialized Friday during the second funeral in as many days for an LAPD officer.
More than 100 people filled a chapel in Covina Hills to bid farewell to Officer John Elkins and his wife, Gloria, both 58. They were slain Feb. 5 at their Highland Park home.
Their 28-year-old son, Mark, has been charged with their murders, along with the killing of a family friend. Elkins was assigned to the front security desk at Parker Center, the LAPD’s headquarters in downtown Los Angeles.
LAPD Assistant Police Chief Frank Piersol attended the funeral and read a statement from Chief Willie Williams.
“He gave the highest level of service,” Williams’ statement said. “I will truly miss John, but will take comfort in the memory of this loyal and dedicated officer.
The couple are survived by two daughters, two sisters, and a 15-year-old son, Russell.
“My dad was a man who had a very good heart,” the teenager said, sobbing. “He did a lot for people.”
Motorcycle Officer Van Johnson, 31, who was killed in a traffic accident while on duty Feb. 5, was laid to rest Thursday.
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