ARLINGTON - Three Arlington police officers stood around a patrol car Thursday sharing hugs and tears, mourning their close friend Officer Craig Story.
The 34-year-old motorcycle officer was killed Wednesday when he crashed into a school bus while trying to pull over a speeding car.
"He was the toughest man I know, the best police officer I know, the best man I know," said Cpl. Gary Jones.
Jones was on the SWAT team with Story, who called the tactical team his dream job. Together they faced some of the most dangerous jobs.
Cpl. Dale Horton said he trusted Story with his life.
"When somebody stands in the gap for you, you remember that person," he said. "He's not just a friend; he's a man who protected your life."
Story had recently resigned from the SWAT team after learning his wife was pregnant with the couple's second child. He left the team to spend more time with his son and allow his wife to go back to school to get her master's degree.
"He made a bigger sacrifice," said Lt. Jim Lowery. "Many times we forget about our families, but Craig never did that."
Story will to be laid to rest January 19. Services will be at the Crossroads Christian Church in Grand Prairie.
E-mail ccivale@wfaa.com
