Bob Robertson, a Waco police officer who served from 1973 to 2008, said Bobby Vicha was one of his field training officers. He said while they were co-workers in the field, they were more like family.

“Robert and Zelda, his parents, were what I considered to be my parents away from home,” Robertson said. “I spent many, many days and nights visiting with him and his family.”

Jesse Flores, a Waco officer from 1973 to 2005, said Bobby Vicha was a “terrific guy” who everyone respected. The day before the shooting, Flores had lunch with Bobby Vicha in Bellmead.

“I miss him a lot, especially when I get reminded,” Flores said.

McLennan County District Attorney Barry Johnson and Waco Assistant Police Chief Frank Gentsch gave statements of thanks to the prosecutors who tried Coble and continued support for the family.

Coble has had several stays of execution over the years, but the Texas Court of Criminal Appeals rejected his last request for a stay about two weeks ago.