Slain Deputy McCartney's Family Says Death Left 'Gaping Hole'

YELM, WA - The family of slain Pierce County Deputy Daniel A. McCartney spoke Thursday for this first time since McCartney died of a gunshot wound early Monday morning. McCartney's uncle, Kory Honea, sheriff of the Butte County, Calif., sheriff's office, read a heartbreaking but thankful statement on behalf of the family.

"Losing Daniel left a gaping hole in our lives and we will never be the same. There are no words to adequately describe what a great person he was ... he was a godly man, a loving husband, a loyal friend to so many," Honea said on behalf of McCartney's wife. "The grief we're experiencing is almost unbearable, however the support we've received from the Pierce County Sheriff's Office and so many members of the law enforcement community of this region as well as many members of this community has been overwhelming."

The two people arrested in McCartney's death, Frank Pawul, 33, and Brenda Troyer, 52, were charged in court Thursday with murder. A third suspect, Henry Carden, died of a self-inflicted gunshot wound to the head near where McCartney was shot.

There is a candlelight vigil planned for McCartney Friday at 6:30 p.m. at Life Center Rainier, 17708 28th Ave. East, Tacoma.

Here's Honea's full statement on behalf of the McCartney family:

Other stories you might be interested in:

• Pierce Deputy Fought Suspects Before He Was Shot
• How To Donate To Deputy Daniel McCartney Legacy Fund

Image courtesy Pierce County Sheriff's Office