HATTIESBURG, Miss. (AP) — More than 1,000 people are attending a memorial for the two slain police officers who authorities say were gunned down in Hattiesburg over the weekend.
A bagpiper played a mournful song to open the memorial Monday at the city's convention center. Workers initially set up 800 chairs and many more were needed. Hundreds of people stood along the walls and spilled into the lobby.
With photos of the uniformed men projected above the stage, Mississippi Gov. Phil Bryant — himself a former police officer — said the city was enduring a difficult, sad time.
Marvin Banks and his girlfriend have been charged with murder in the officers' death. Banks' brother has been charged as an accessory and a friend has been charged with obstruction.
Their first court appearance is set for Monday afternoon.