Robert Allen

Detroit Free Press

Yips and yowls echoed down an otherwise silent Adams Street in downtown Detroit on Wednesday as hundreds of police officers — many with their police dogs — stood in line for the viewing of a Wayne State University officer killed on duty.

Officer Collin Rose, 29, was fatally shot Nov. 22 while working in a neighborhood west of the university's Midtown campus. The viewing at Ford Field drew officers and police dogs from across the state and beyond.

"It was a really amazing showing (of) the tightness of that canine police group ... something to really comfort the family, and we just greatly appreciate it," said Wayne State Lt. Patrick Saunders, who was Rose's supervisor.

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Rose, who had two police dogs — Clyde and Wolverine — worked as part of Ford Field's security team on Detroit Lions game days. The visitation was a first for the stadium, according to a Ford Field spokesperson.

Wayne State Police Chief Anthony Holt said Rose loved working at the venue, and one of his dogs was brought to Wednesday's viewing. Saunders said it was "just an incredible showing" at Ford Field.

"I don't think any police officer wants to go to a funeral, but I think it makes us proud to understand what the love is in this profession," he said.

"It doesn't matter if I've ever met you before. If you're a police officer, and I'm a police officer, there's a bond."

Both of Rose's dogs are expected to return to work. "Naturally, there's confusion," Holt said. "No different than the confusion with the officers. But after this is over, we'll tuck it in and we'll have to go back to work."

George Mason University Master Police Officer Travis Willis traveled from Virginia with fellow Officer Ryan Crice to attend the viewing. Willis said his department felt it would be good, as another university, to show support. He's 29, the same age Rose was.

"It hurts," Willis said. "You know, we do the same stuff he, unfortunately, lost his life doing — we do this nightly. it makes us feel good to be able to come out and represent our department."

The public viewing continued until 5 p.m.

The funeral will be Thursday at St. Joan of Arc Catholic Church, 22412 Overlake in St. Clair Shores. Family hour is 10 a.m.-11 a.m. Mass is at 11 a.m., followed by a law enforcement procession leading to Resurrection Cemetery in Clinton Township, 18201 Clinton River Road, where Rose will be laid to rest. Kaul Funeral Home in St. Clair Shores is handling the arrangements.

Watch:

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Immediately as the funeral begins, motorists in Wayne County can expect to see all Wayne County Sheriff’s deputies pull over to activate their sirens and flashing lights for 15 seconds.

Contact Robert Allen: on Twitter @rallenMI or rallen@freepress.com