Teezers Bar opened to the public Friday for the first time since an off-duty police officer was killed trying to stop a robbery there.
Between the flowers, balloons, and messages the makeshift memorial for veteran Racine Police Officer John Hetland grew outside the tavern.
"It means a lot when the community comes together at a time like this," said Terri Bowers-Hansen who came to the bar to show her support.
The bar owners added a permanent tribute to Hetland to the establishment, a plaque with his badge number.
The owner of another local bar called Dickie's closed his business Friday morning so that their workers and customers could go to Teezers. It was a gesture they hope sent a message.
"We just want to show our support and love to them and that we care, and we want them to get stronger," Kris Kaestner, manager at Dickie's said.
With the man who killed Hetland still on the run, people in the community are still waiting anxiously for him to be caught.
A growing reward of more than $40,000 is offeredto anyone who can provide information relating to the capture of the suspect.
Anyone with additional information is asked to contact the Kenosha County Sheriff's Department at (262) 656-1234.
