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Local church holds fundraiser for fallen Toledo Police officer

From motorcycles to a bake sale and car wash, the community continues to show support to the family of fallen Officer Anthony Dia, a week after his death.

TOLEDO, Ohio — It's been one week since the tragic death of Toledo Police Officer, Anthony Dia.

That one week has shown how a community can rally together and support the family he left behind.

"It was heartbreaking just to hear a fallen officer. Such a good man out there,  he's a hero. For someone to do that to someone [else] it's just sad. It really is," said Ronald Engel, an organizer for a fundraiser supporting Officer Dia's family.

Members of the Toledo First Assembly of God Church, held a fundraiser on Saturday to honor a man who will forever be remembered.

"The youth in our church is putting on a car wash and bake sale. It's all donation-based and 100 percent of the proceeds goes to Officer Anthony Dia's family," said Jami Engel, another organizer of the event.

The news of Officer Dia's death affected the city and their church, pushing the organizers to do something for Dia's immediate and police family. They hope this has an impact on the youth in their church as well.

"We hope that we set a good example, that they just know what to do what's right," said Ronald.

"We want to teach them to give back and give respect to those that are in authority. And to thank those that get out there every day, put that badge on, leave the house and put their lives on the line, they don't get enough thanks," said Jami.

The community support during this time was something the organizers say was great to see. They also got an appearance from Officer Dia's father and step-mother, who thanked them for all they are doing to support the family.

The event raised just over $3,000 and all proceeds will go to Officer Dia's family.

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