Flags at half-staff, ribbons and messages fill city in memory of fallen trooper

WHITEVILLE, NC (WWAY) — A community is mourning after loss of Trooper Kevin Conner. The 38-year old married father of two was a 11-year veteran of the North Carolina Highway Patrol.

Investigators say 20-year-old Raheem Davis was stopped by Conner for speeding before he allegedly shot and killed him.

All over Whiteville Thursday there were ribbons, flags at half staff, and messages of prayer and support for the family and law enforcement. Gov. Cooper ordered flags starting at sunrise Thursday through sunset Sunday.

Brandon Garner, area manager for Canal Woods, where Conner worked a part time job, says Conner was one of the nicest and most genuine people always with a smile on his face and willing to do anything that was asked of him.

“I got a call from a good friend and coworker early yesterday morning, and just in complete disbelief,” Garner said. “Just didn’t even want to believe it was true because Kevin was always so cautious in his patrol job that it was total disbelief.”

Garner says people that only met Conner once have reached out to him extremely upset. He says that’s the impression Conner made on people.

Funeral services will be held Sunday from 1-3:45 p.m. at South Columbus High School in Tabor City. The service will be held following visitation at 4 p.m. at South Columbus High School.