Local

Investigators retrace steps where officer, K-9 killed

MARION, N.C. — Investigators scoured the woods Friday retracing every step to figure out exactly how a fellow officer died.

Meanwhile, people lined the streets showing respect for his K-9 partner, who was also killed in the line of duty.

The deaths of U.S. Forest Service Officer Jason Crisp and his K-9, Maros, are still fresh for many of those who worked with them and now have to investigate.

The partners were shot and killed on Wednesday while tracking down Troy Whisnant, who was wanted for killing his parents.

SPECIAL SECTION: Jason Crisp - Killed in the line of duty

On Friday, authorities told Channel 9 reporter Dave Faherty the investigation will be difficult.

Faherty was with investigators as they returned to the shooting scene north of Morganton where Whisnant shot and killed Crisp.

They spent the day mapping the area with the help of the Highway Patrol helicopter, but their thoughts weren't far from the fallen officer.

TIMELINE: 4 people and K9 killed in Burke Co.

"It has been very difficult as a fellow officer. We have a lot of officers that were very close to Jason, and to finalize this for this family and the officers that loved him," said Burke County Capt. Rodney Norman.

Two officers with the U.S. Forest Service went through Crisp's SUV removing personal belongings, which included a small wooden cross he hung from his rearview mirror.

Miles away in Marion, people lined the street as a possession of law enforcement and others returned the remains of Crisp's caning partner to the funeral home.

LIVE UPDATES: Burke Co. officer and his K9 killed in line of duty

The dog was also shot and killed by Whisnant. Maros will be cremated and buried with Crisp.

"It's tragic. It is sad. He's as much of an officer," said resident Linda Lyndsey.

"I just think it is a very sad day for everyone, for his family and his boys. It is just sad day," said resident Cindy Cotter.

The visitation for Crisp will be Sunday at the West Court Baptist Church in Marion from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m.  His funeral will be held Monday 2 p.m. at McDowell High School and will be open to the public and the media.  McDowell County schools will be dismissed at noon.


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