One of Central Florida's most popular barbecue restaurants opened the doors of its Kissimmee location to customers wanting to support the families of fallen KPD officers Matthew Baxter and Sam Howard.
- 4Rivers Smokehouse not usually open Sunday
- Line wrapped around Kissimmee location for fundraiser
- Fundraiser included car wash, entertainment
4Rivers Smokehouse in Kissimmee usually is closed on Sundays.
However, this Sunday, Aug. 27, people packed the location. For four hours, a line wrapped around the building as peole took part in a fundraiser for the officers, who were killed in the line of duty a little over a week ago.
"These men gave their lives for us along with the military our troops that's why I'm here to help their families," said supporter Ray Smith.
To many of the residents at 4Rivers Sunday, the event represented the community's way of paying their respects and giving back to the families.
"It's actually really exciting to see this," said Guillermo Soto, general manager of 4Rivers Smokehouse. "We knew that we were going to get a really good turn out with amount of people that have came in and asked questions about it. The minute that we started talking about it, we knew we were going to get the turnout, but this is absolutely amazing."
In addition to the food, there was a car wash, entertainment, and shirts for sale. Every bit of the profit made will go to the officers' families.
"I think that's absolutely wonderful," said supporter Tamara Judges. "Unfortunately in today's world law enforcement gets a very negative publicity. However, this should be something positive and show that they are truly here for the community and they want the best for everyone."
Both men were described as giving every ounce of their life to this community. On this day, the community paid it forward.
"These two gentleman were slain out doing their job to protect us," said Smith.
Soto said other local businesses also donated toward a raffle for the fundraising event.