PENN HILLS (KDKA) — It was three years ago this evening that Penn Hills Police Officer Michael Crawshaw was shot and killed while responding to a call.

On the anniversary of his death, he is being remembered by family, friends and community members.

There are some things that demand long memories, sacrifices never to be forgotten.

“He was a very personable person. A great guy all around,” recalls Penn Hills Police Chief Howard Burton.

Three years ago today, Officer Crawshaw was first to arrive at a home where a man had allegedly been killed over a $500 drug debt.

Ronald Robinson, of Homewood, is charged in that shooting and with fatally wounding Officer Crawshaw before he could even get out of his patrol car. He was 32-years-old.

“This event did have an impact on our whole community, as well as the Crawshaw family and the police department,” Penn Hills Community Renaissance Group organizer Jane Marra said

Penn Hills Kitchens have been busy trying to give back to those who protect and serve.

Starting Thursday morning, there was breakfast for the arriving daylight officers and lunch and dinner for those who came later.

The loss of Officer Crawshaw and his gifts as a police officer, one of the best and the brightest, have made the community vitally aware of what it is those who wear a badge risk every day.

“It really hit home that these officers putting their lives on the line was not some out-there idea, but something that was real and tangible,” said Heather Hoolihan.

From 7 p.m. until 8 p.m. tonight, the Penn Hills Municipal Building will be a backdrop for 500-lighted luminaria, which were decorated by school children and dedicated to the memory of Officer Crawshaw.

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