GRAND HAVEN, Mich. -- Grand Haven Police Officer Scott Flahive was killed in the line of duty more than 20 years ago. On Wednesday night, nearly 150 drivers took part the 20th annual Officer Scott Flahive Memorial Cruise.
"It basically helps keep Scott's memory alive. They've started another monument that they are going to have by the police station in his honor also," said Kurt Pravda, who founded the event. "These guys put their life on the line every day. It might not seem like it in a small community." Pravda is cousins with Flahive's step mother.
Pravda said the first year's cruise had about 20 cars and has been growing ever since.
"I remember when he got shot down. I remember seeing all the police cars parade down Washington," said Nancy Glueck.
Officer Flahive was shot and killed on December 13, 1994, after pulling over a car for a speeding violation. What he didn't know was that inside the vehicle were two jail escapees. One of them fired the fatal shot from the backseat as Officer Flahive approached the vehicle.
"You never know what you are going to stop when you have a traffic stop," said Pravda. "You could think it's just a speeder and end up with someone on meth and try to shoot you or do harm to you."
"Anytime we can remember any of our service members, our policemen, our Army, Navy, any of those service members who give their lives for us, is a great cause," said rider Laurie Connell.
There were also several raffles on Wednesday night to raise money for the Officer Flahive Scholarship, which is awarded to young people seeking a career in law enforcement.
There are also plans to create a monument for Flahive at the Grand Haven Police Department.
