MOSES LAKE — After a mass shooting left five police officers dead and nine more injured in Dallas, Texas last week, local law enforcement agencies are voicing support for officers nationwide.

Last week’s tragedy gripped the nation and heightened the awareness of the dangers police officers face in the line of duty. In response, thousands of letters of support have been sent to the police agencies affected by the shooting. On Friday Grant County Sheriff Tom Jones sent letters to Dallas Police Chief David Brown and Dallas Area Rapid Transit (DART) Chief James Spiller expressing his sympathies, prayers and comfort to the two respective chiefs, the families of the fallen and wounded officers, and the members of the Dallas and DART police departments.

“Although brief, these were two of the most difficult letters I have ever had to write. I felt sad, angry, helpless and tongue-tied writing to two police chiefs who are clearly grief-stricken,” Jones said. “In my heart, as a law enforcement officer and as a member of society, I know it is necessary and essential that I extend to them caring and empathy. I am angry of the absolute disregard for life and the senselessness of this particular act.”

Jones said he is moving forward with a project to “Light Grant County Blue,” in which the goal is to illuminate every home in Grant County with a blue porch light to show support for local law enforcement agencies.

“In these moments of sadness, confusion and senselessness, I am encouraging all citizens to please show support for the fallen officers in Texas by lighting a candle, turning on a blue porch light, saying a prayer, or sending them a note or card. Do what you can to help make our world a better place,” he stated.

The tragedy in Dallas has also promoted a strong response in Othello, where the Othello Police Department will be holding a car wash starting at noon this Saturday at the OPD, 500 E. Main St., to raise funds for the families of the slain officers. The public is encouraged to come to the car wash and join OPD officers and the Othello Police Explorers for an afternoon of music and snacks. All proceeds raised will be going directly to the families of the fallen officers through the Dallas Police Association.

In Moses Lake a candlelight vigil will be held at 9:30 p.m. Thursday in Sinkiuse Square. The public is invited to bring a candle and blue lights.

Richard Byrd can be reached via email at city@columbiabasinherald.com.