5K Run Raises Money for Scholarship Fund

TUPELO, Miss. (WCBI) — Hundreds of law enforcement officers and residents gathered at Tupelo’s Fair Park Saturday morning to raise money for a worthy cause.

It was the first Officers Down 5K Run sponsored by the Wives of Wounded Warriors support group.

They wanted to establish a scholarship fund, and a portion of the money raised by Saturday’s 5K run/walk will go to a scholarship fund named for slain Tupelo police Sergeant Gale Stauffer, and Master Sgt. John Collum. Collum was an Itawamba County game warden who was struck and killed by a speeding vehicle May 9, while checking out a prowler call.

Stauffer’s widow Beth was visibly moved by all the outpouring of support from the community.

“I’m very excited humbled that our community is not just supporting our family but law enforcement and fallen officers,” she said. “Not just Gayle, and not just John Collum, but just all law enforcement officers. They’re very vital to this community. They not only take care of the bad guys, but they take care of the good guys. And they are the good guys, some of the best people you will ever meet.”

Every runner paid a $35 entry fee, and raised money through sponsorships.

Categories: Local News

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