TK Tavern hosts benefit for first responders in honor of Lt. Hoosock and Ofc. Jensen

CAMILLUS, N.Y. (WSYR-TV) – It’s been nearly two weeks since Lieutenant Michael Hoosock and Officer Michael Jensen were killed in the line of duty. On Saturday, April 27, the community honored them at TK Tavern with a benefit where all proceeds go to the fallen heroes’ families.

A gesture of gratitude for those who often go without thanks when doing their job.

“So, this was just a way we could say we’re here for you, we respect you, we want to be a part of you, anything we can do to help out. And it’s not just the police officers, it’s every first responder, everybody that puts their life at risk every day,” Travis Regester, Co-owner of TK Tavern, said.

The benefit honored Hoosock and Jensen, with all first responders invited to eat for free with food donated from restaurants all around the area.

“A ton of businesses donated baskets, gift cards, power washers, vacuum cleaners, the Syracuse Mets donated tickets, the Crunch donated tickets. Everybody got involved, it really became an overwhelming feeling of how much the community supports each other,” Regester said.

The benefit wouldn’t have been possible without those volunteering their time. Staff, regulars, friends and family stepped up to give thanks to our community’s heroes.

“It’s unfortunate that it has to be a situation like this, but in reality, they are the backbone of our society. They are the ones that are protecting us, and I appreciate every one of them,” Julie Halstead, a volunteer said.

While also remembering the fallen and the loved ones they left behind.

“It’s a horrible situation, and I think the more we show not only their families, the families of the other officers in this area that we care. This community really cares,” Halstead added.

A deed dedicated to service.