In memory

Odessa Mayor Larry Melton has issued a call for U.S. and Texas flags in the city of Odessa to be flown at half-staff in honor of two Odessa police officers who were slain Saturday.

“It has to be a voluntary — a mayor cannot legally order flags to be flown at half-staff,” Melton said. “We have asked people to voluntarily do that. I’ve gotten a response from ECISD, the County and others this morning have done that — we've done that at the City. “

While Melton issued the call for individuals and businesses to voluntary lower their flags, State Rep. Buddy West has requested that Gov. Rick Perry issue an order.

“I was shocked and greatly saddened by the news of the shootings of officers Jones and Gardner,” West said. “My family and I are keeping the loved ones of the officers in our prayers and extend our heartfelt condolences.”

A representative of Perry’s office said the request is under advisement, and the office would issue a news release once a decision is made.

Even before the governor issues an order, Melton is encouraging Odessans to pay respect to the officers.

“It’s a tribute to the two slain officers, and it needs to be done,” he said.

Those two slain officers are Cpl. Arlie Jones and Cpl. Scott Gardner. They were gunned down Saturday night in a backyard in the 2900 block of Ventura Avenue.

In the same shooting, Cpl. Abel Marquez was shot multiple times, once in the face. He remains in critical condition at University Medical Center in Lubbock.

The man accused of gunning the officers down with a shotgun, Larry Neil White, remains in the Ector County Detention Center, held without bond.

Two days after the tragedy unfolded, the city’s still reeling from the news.

“Everybody’s still in shock and stunned,” Melton said this morning. “It’s been a very tough weekend.”

Melton said Police Chief Chris Pipes is meeting with some representatives of the officers’ families today to see what needs to be done to move forward.

“Of course, we can’t say much — the Rangers are still in charge of the investigation,” Melton said.

“We’re still moving along to keep the city going and at the same time honor, respect and help the families of the deceased,” he said.

At the same time, the mayor praised the law enforcement community, which turned out in mass Saturday to support the OPD.

“I was out at the scene about three hours Saturday,” he said. “All the off-duty policemen, the off-duty firefighters — I was amazed at the level of emotion.

“As someone said, it's a family, and they have a well-knit respect for each other,” he said.

The Crisis Center has planned a 7:30 p.m. prayer vigil at the Odessa Police Deparment.

A benevolence account has been set up for the families of Cpl. Arlie Jones, Cpl. Scott Gardner and for Cpl. Abel Marquez.

To donate, visit

>> Odessa Employee Credit Union.

>> 1006 E. Seventh St.

>> (432) 333-2510.

>> Donations may be made to Account No. 9002668.