Jacob Andrew Candanoza Obituary, Death; – A candlelight vigil for Officer Jacob Andrew Candanoza was held on Wednesday night, marked by deep emotion, personal stories, and tears, just three days after the tragic death of the 28-year-old husband and father in the line of duty.
Terrell City Manager Mike Sims formally recognized Candanoza as one of the officers who lost their lives while serving, urging the community to support one another during this difficult time.
“You’ll have the opportunity to lean on each other. You can share a hug,” Sims remarked. “This evening is dedicated to expressing our shared grief and sorrow.”
Born in Dallas, Candanoza served in the United States Marines and was honorably discharged in 2019. He began his law enforcement career with the Dallas County Sheriff’s Office before joining the Terrell Police Department on July 12, just five days shy of completing five months of service.
“I was truly astonished by the turnout,” expressed his father, David Candanoza. As David Candanoza lit his candle, others in attendance followed suit. The crowd was invited to raise their candles high—a poignant tribute to a life lost under tragic circumstances.
Following the candle lighting, a moment of silence and prayer was observed before the candles were extinguished. “I held my candle tightly. I didn’t want to extinguish it,” David Candanoza shared. “I wish to keep it lit.” He conveyed that nothing could ever alleviate the anguish of losing a child, describing the pain as unbearable.
The outpouring of support from the community, particularly from fellow law enforcement officers, has been overwhelming. He referred to the thin blue line as both long and resilient. Jacob Andrew Candanoza Obituary, Death; “For the funeral, I made sure to wear a blue tie,” he noted. “That is my way of showing support.”
The funeral service is scheduled for December 17 at Lakepointe Church in Rockwall, with a viewing for Candanoza taking place from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Monday at the Max Slayton Funeral Chapel.
