Friend Remembers Broken Arrow Police Officer Killed In Motorcycle Crash

A lot of Broken Arrow officers are struggling with the death of a fellow officer, Eugene Orr, who died recently in a motorcycle crash.

There's a feeling of sadness at the police department, as a small memorial outside the station is a constant reminder of the good times they've had with Orr, and, the pain that comes with his death.

A friendly smile and good joke are what people could count on when it came to the 12-year Broken Arrow Police veteran.

Captain Thomas Cooper joined the force with Orr in 2004; since then, their friendship has grown.

"He was certainly a coworker, but, in the end, he was my best friend," Cooper said.

Orr died doing something he loved - riding his motorcycle through the quiet streets of Coweta.

12/11/2016 Related Story: Memorial Fund Established For Family Of BA Officer Killed In Crash

Cooper said when he found out a truck hit Orr, he rushed to the hospital.

"The hole he leaves in the community is pretty outstanding," the captain said.

Cooper was there for his friend's final moments, but he knows Orr would want his friends to carry on.

"It's easy to have that grief overcome you, but there's some faith that we'll get through this,” he said. “The police family is certainly going to take care of his family."

Cooper said Orr's purpose, outside of being a loving father to two teenage children, was being an officer. Either as a patrol officer, resource officer or even arms trainer, he took pride in his work.

Cooper said with a heart as big as Orr's, he never met a stranger who didn't like him.

“He always had that unchaining ability to relate to people,” he said. “His faith was phenomenal, and I think he used that to touch people."

Although this is a holiday season marred by tragedy, Cooper said it was Orr's favorite time of the year, so he's hoping a little holiday spirit with help heal those who are hurting most.

Orr's funeral is Thursday and his family is asking that guests bring a toy instead of flowers. They'll donate them to children in Orr's memory.

12/12/2016 Related Story: Funeral Information Released For BA Officer Killed In Motorcycle Crash

A Go Fund Me account has also been set up; if you’d like to donate, you can do so here.