Family: Detroit officer killed in hit-and-run was a hero who loved serving Detroit
DETROIT (WJBK) - After their son was tragically killed in the line of duty, Officer Fadi Shukur's family is sharing his story.
Shukur was a navy veteran who continued to protect and serve when he became an officer with the Detroit Police Department just over a year ago.
Shukur's mother, Anita Banks say he loved his job and loved service. After two weeks of fighting for his life, Shukur passed away Wednesday morning.
His mother clung to her rosary as she told us about her son. She says he traveled the world and couldn't be swayed from his calling as a Detroit Police officer.
"My son is a hero, he had a mission, he was very determined and nobody could stop him, " said Anita.
Shukur was answering a call for crowd control on the city's west side earlier this month when a driver hit him outside of his patrol car. The driver sped off. Johnathan David Cole later turned himself in. The 19-year-old is now likely to face second-degree murder charges.
Shukur's stepfather, Anthony Dean Banks, is also a veteran police officer himself and says Shukur fought hard but his head injuries were too severe.
"There was hopeful at first but then it became evident that he wasn't there anymore," said Anthony.
Shukur leaves behind his wife Nadine. They married just one month ago. His parents take comfort in knowing he was doing something he loved, carrying on a family legacy. But it's of course bittersweet.
"He did an internship with Detroit Police and said this is what I want to do," said Anthony.
Shukur is the third Detroit police officer killed in the line of duty this year. He had just over a year in with the department but he made his mark. Banks says he wants people to remember that his son was a hero and that he served our great nation and the city of Detroit.
Shukur's funeral is not arranged yet. The family is setting up a fund to help his wife Nadine. As soon as we get that information we will pass it on for anyone who wants to donate.