Despite the snowy weather, dozens of residents, law enforcement officials and public servants from San Marcos and surrounding communities gathered in front of the Hays County courthouse with candles for the deceased police officer Kenneth Copeland Thursday night. Copeland was shot and killed Dec. 4 while serving a warrant in the El Camino Real neighborhood. San Marcos Police Chief Chase Stapp and San Marcos Mayor John Thomaides spoke at the beginning of the event. James Warner played the bagpipes, which are traditionally played at fire department and police department funerals. PromiseLand San Marcos Pastor Robin Steele ended the vigil with a moment of silence and prayer. For those who would like to direct donations to Copeland's family checks can be made out payable to the San Marcos Citizen’s Police Academy Alumni Association, with “Ken Copeland” in the memo line. Checks and cash can be dropped off or mailed to the San Marcos Police Department, Attn. Brenda Pisana, 2300 S. IH-35, San Marcos. Those wishing to give their respects can also send donations to Blue Santa and can make checks payable to the San Marcos Police Department, writing “Copeland Blue Santa” in the memo line of the check. Checks and cash can be dropped off or mailed to the San Marcos Police Department, Attn. Brenda Pisana, 2300 S. IH-35, San Marcos.