'I wish we didn't have to do this': Memorial ride held for Raleigh officer killed in Hedingham shooting

Sunday morning a line of motorcycles and vehicles moved through downtown Raleigh.

It was a memorial ride for Raleigh officer Gabriel Torres, killed in the Hedingham mass shooting.

The event is organized by Operation Fly our Flag, a non-profit that honors military members and first responders. Founder, Nathan Sheppard was one himself

“I was a Wake County deputy,” said Sheppard. “I know people who knew him and worked with him and their heart is breaking and my heart is breaking for them.”

You could hear and feel the roar of all the engines Sunday morning. At exactly 10:42 on the clock, they started to roll.

10-42 is a police code. It’s used when an officer ends their tour of duty.

“I wish we didn’t have to do this,” said Sheppard.

It is a moving memorial for Torres, who also served in the Marines, and was killed in the mass shooting as he was on his way to work.

“As a first responder myself, I think it is important to honor my brothers and sisters,” said participant Delanie Gilmore.

The long line of horsepower and flags is intended to get attention and make a statement.

“We hear you, we are here for you, we support you," said Sheppard. "Let us try to honor him as best we can.”

But it isn’t just a show of support. It is also intended to help the wife and young daughter Torres leaves behind.

Each vehicle paid 20 dollars to participate and all of the money goes to the Torres family.