Worcester residents and first‑responders gathered on Wednesday morning at Our Lady of the Angels Church, 1222 Main Street, to honor Officer Kurt Solomon, a beloved member of the Worcester Police Department. The funeral mass began at 11 a.m., with a solemn procession of uniformed officers and community members lining the streets as the casket was carried into the sanctuary.
Family, faith, and community support
Officer Solomon, an Army veteran, was remembered for his dedication to public safety, his witty sense of humor, and his love of golf, fishing, and gardening. The Solomon family released a statement describing the past week as a “nightmare” that left them “heartbroken and rudderless,” while also expressing gratitude for the compassion and empathy shown by local agencies.
Police Chief Paul Saucier called Solomon “a hell of a guy” and said the department would continue to support his family and the community during this difficult time. The funeral was followed by burial at Worcester County Memorial Park.
Police investigation
Solomon was found dead in his home on Tuesday, prompting a citywide search for his wife, Karen Solomon, who was last seen walking away from the residence. On Monday, police announced they believed they had located her body in a wooded area off May Street, near the Fairlawn Rehabilitation Hospital and Coes Pond. The department described the incident as a tragic murder‑suicide.
Authorities asked residents to avoid parking on Main Street between Curtis Parkway and Park Avenue from 9:45 a.m. to 1 p.m. due to temporary road closures and expected traffic delays.
Resources for those in need
The Worcester Police Department reminded the public that help is available for anyone experiencing domestic violence or emotional distress. Victims can call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1‑800‑799‑SAFE (7233) or visit thehotline.org. Those struggling with mental‑health concerns can reach the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline by calling or texting 988, or by visiting 988lifeline.org. Additional resources are listed at SpeakingOfSuicide.com/resources.
Community response
Hundreds of officers, city officials, and community members filed into the church for the wake on Tuesday, underscoring the deep respect and affection Worcester holds for its public servants. The outpouring of support reflects the city’s strong family and faith values, as neighbors come together to comfort one another in the face of tragedy.
Original reporting: NBC10 Boston — read the source article.
