Missouri law enforcement officers, veterans pay respect to fallen Clinton police office

The funeral procession for slain Clinton police Officer Gary Michael Jr. started around 8:45 a.m. Saturday.

The family of Michael and members of the Clinton Police Department drove under a large American flag and then were saluted by over 80 members of the Patriot Guard Riders, before turning into the Benson Convention and Exposition Center where the service is being held.

Hundreds of law enforcement officers and first responders from across the state came to the funeral.

Patriot Guard Riders were lined up in front of the center, holding American flags as the community walked inside to show their respect for the fallen officer.

Michael was shot Sunday evening while performing a routine traffic stop. He was an officer for less than a year.

Michael was the first officer in Clinton to lose his life in the line of duty.

The public viewing was held from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m., followed by the memorial service.

The burial service will start around noon.