Police will offer public’s memorial collection to slain Phoenix detective’s family

PHOENIX — The items from a makeshift memorial to Phoenix Police Detective John Hobbs that visitors continue to add to will be given to the slain officer’s family.

Visitors continued to leave messages of condolences, stuffed animals, flowers, balloons, candles and other items at the scene where Hobbs was shot and killed last week at 43rd Avenue and Bethany Home Road.

Phoenix Police Sgt. Steve Martos said the community support has been overwhelming.

“Out of love for that officer, we will provide all of the written letters and items from the memorial when it’s appropriate,” Martos said. “This has been extremly touching from my perspective and the department’s.”

Hobbs, 43, served for 21 years until he was shot and killed by William Thornton, who was wanted in connection with a Feb. 25 shooting. Detective Albert Casados was also injured in the shooting. He was released from the hospital last week.