Fish fry benefit held for deputies

FOLEY, Ala. (WALA) - If you're familiar with law enforcement, you know it's less like a job and more like a family.

Whether they're out protecting citizens on the streets or simply cooking up a good meal, they take care of their own.

A benefit fish fry was held by authorities in honor of Baldwin County Deputies Scott Ward and Sgt. Curtis Summerlin. 

Deputy Ward and Sgt. Summerlin were shot during a gunfight with Michael Jansen at his home in November of 2012.

Ward died from his injuries. Summerlin was transported to the hospital in critical condition and has since recovered. 

Volunteers from in and outside law enforcement turned out and helped dozens of folks who lined up through the day for good food and a great cause. 

A plate cost $8 and all proceeds are going to help the families of the deputies. 

Officials said businesses from around the area donated supplies to help make the fish fry a reality. 

Lt. Tony Nolfi is a shift supervisor for the Baldwin County Sheriff's Office. He was close friends with both men. He said the support from all the law enforcement at the fish fry means the world.

"We lost one of our best that day, that's for sure. We still have one of our best recuperating. But (Summerlin) is doing better," Nolfi said, "This lets us know can count on each other in the best of times and the worst of times. It really helps you do the job when you know you have that kind of support."

The Foley Police Department and Police Explorers helped organize the fish fry and volunteers served plenty of good food to folks who showed up throughout the day.

Dwight Lincoln came from Robertsdale to donate.

"All of our officers risk their lives every day for our safety. When something tragic like this happens, we need to remember those families and help them. We're glad to help and thankful we can," said Lincoln.

Lt. David White with the Foley Police Department said along with volunteers in and outside law enforcement helping, they didn't have to spend one cent. All their supplies were donated by businesses around the area.

"Tragedies like this happen all too often in this day and time. We do anything we can to help our family out," White said.

Organizers said they expect to raise between $5,000 and $7,000.