GREEN BAY, Wis. (NBC 26) — While working together in the community, a trio of Green Bay police officers has formed what they call 'an unbreakable bond.'
"We're like The Three Musketeers," patrol officer Lucy Elfman said.
But now, one member of the trio is facing an unexpected tragedy.
"We go to so many calls, we see so much on the road, but this probably the worst thing that either one of us have had to be a part of or experience," Elfman said.
Last Tuesday, patrol officer Tim Fuerst's wife Alyssa died at just 26 years old due to a medical emergency. The couple from Door County met as teenagers and they were married for five years.
"Tim didn't prepare for this and never expected that this would happen on a day that he comes home after work," Elfman said. "For him to not have to worry about making sure Alyssa gets the proper homegoing she needs, I think that means a lot to him and to all of us."
A GoFundMe created by Fuerst's companion officers has raised almost $25,000 in the span of five days. The goal is to cover funeral expenses.
"We're both grateful that we can be there with Tim and help as much as we can make a terrible situation a little bit easier for him and Alyssa's family," Elfman said.
"[We want Tim to] be able to be able to have a financial stability to give her the funeral that she deserves," officer Ashley Mills said. "Maybe have a little money set aside so that way the goals that they wanted to accomplish together, he can still do in her memory."
The officers say they can learn from Alyssa, who always lived life with a positive attitude.
"I met them three years ago after Tim got sworn in and it was just an instant friendship," Mills said. "She was the light of his life, and he literally did everything for her."
"Everyone described Alyssa as having a radiant smile, pure soul, pure heart, just would do anything for anybody," Elfman said.
Alyssa's funeral takes place this week, and a strong presence from the Green Bay Police Department is expected to attend.
"She was just a proud police wife, and wanted to be there by her husband's side forever," Mills said. "And it was always 'get home safe to me.' And that's what he always did."
If you would like to donate to Fuerst's cause, scan the QR code on your screen or head to theGoFundMe here. Anyone wishing to give in person can drop off their donation at the Green Bay Police Department's front desk. All money will be given to Fuerst directly.
