CLAIRTON (KDKA) — Several hundred people turned out for a candlelight vigil for injured Clairton Police Officer James Kuzak.

He was shot three times answering a home invasion call on Miller Avenue late Monday night.

During emotional remarks, Kuzak’s mom, Bev, asked the crowd to pray for her son. She also urged them to be supportive of police officers.

Clairton Police Chief Robert Hoffman said people who worked with Jimmy felt safe with him even though he’s only been on the job for a few weeks.

Father Nick Mastrangelo, a friend of Kuzak’s family, told KDKA he visited with Kuzak in the hospital and said he was joking, laughing and seemed to be good spirits

Father Nick said he’s optimistic about Kuzak’s future.

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