Students, public invited to line Freeport and Leechburg roads for funeral tomorrow

Residents from Lower Burrell and the surrounding communities are expected to come together tomorrow to show their respect during the funeral procession for fallen New Kensington police Officer Brian Shaw.

Lower Burrell officials have asked residents to stand along Leechburg and Freeport roads from Rusiewicz Funeral Home to Mount St. Peter's Church.

"Tomorrow it's about the community grieving," said Lower Burrell Mayor Richard Callender. "We will be there to show the support to the family."

Callender said word about the plans to line the roads has gotten out on social media. He said officials expect police officers from across the state and country to attend the procession and funeral.

Callender said officials invite residents to, "please come out and support the family of Officer Shaw and Officer Shaw — showing him the respect that we have for his service to the community."

The New Kensington-Arnold School District announced yesterday it has canceled classes for students due to the funeral procession. The day will be used as a teacher in-service day. The district also invited its students to line Freeport Road in Arnold and New Kensington.

Emily Balser is a Tribune-Review staff writer. Reach her at 724-226-4680, emilybalser@tribweb.com or on Twitter @emilybalser.