Jacqueline Reckling, the wife of slain Michigan sheriff's deputy Bradley Reckling, grievously remembers her husband as an "exceptional" father and a dedicated law enforcement officer. She emphasizes the devastating impact his loss has had on their family, especially their three young daughters and the baby on the way.
In the wake of the tragic ambush that claimed the life of Michigan sheriff's deputy Bradley Reckling, his grieving widow, Jacqueline, has bravely spoken out about her immense loss and the immeasurable impact it has had on their family.
"The world has been hearing about how the Oakland County Sheriff's Office lost a talented and dedicated detective this weekend," Jacqueline said in an emotionally charged interview on "Fox & Friends" Tuesday. "But more significantly, our family lost everything."
Michigan Deputy's Widow Speaks Out After Tragic Loss: 'Our Family Lost Everything'
Bradley Reckling, 30, was fatally shot Saturday night when the driver of a stolen vehicle opened fire on him during a traffic stop. The devoted father of three young girls and a fourth child on the way, he had been with the sheriff's office for nearly seven years.
Jacqueline, who is now pregnant with their fourth child, shared that her young daughters, ages six, four, and one, are struggling to comprehend the devastating reality of their father's absence. "They don't quite understand what's going on," she said, her voice laced with sorrow. "They're too young to fully understand the scope of this tragedy."
Michigan Deputy's Widow Speaks Out After Tragic Loss: 'Our Family Lost Everything'
"He was everything that was good and truly an exceptional human being," Jacqueline continued. "He poured his entire heart into every aspect of his life, and he was selfless in giving. He put himself before others, and he always showed up."
Jacqueline lovingly recalled Bradley's unwavering commitment to his family and his passion for being a law enforcement officer. "He loved being a detective, and he was a great detective for all those reasons," she said. "But he loved being a dad more, and he was the best dad to our girls. ... They looked up to him so much. They wanted to be just like him. And they deserve so much more time with him."
Michigan Deputy's Widow Speaks Out After Tragic Loss: 'Our Family Lost Everything'
Oakland County Sheriff Michael Bouchard also spoke about Bradley Reckling's exceptional qualities and the profound loss his passing has left in its wake. "Brad was an outstanding deputy who was well-respected by his peers and the community," Bouchard said on "Fox & Friends First." "He had a bright future ahead of him, and his loss is a devastating blow to our agency and to his family."
Bouchard revealed that Bradley was in plain clothes and an unmarked car when the ambush occurred. He reported that three individuals have been taken into custody in connection with the shooting.
Michigan Deputy's Widow Speaks Out After Tragic Loss: 'Our Family Lost Everything'
"We're going to do everything we can to help the family, support the family, take out some of the financial bumps and edges that they're going to be facing," Bouchard said. "We'll never fill that hole, no one will ever be able to do that, but we're going to try to help them on things we can help and be there for them."
In a touching gesture of support, Tunnel to Towers CEO Frank Siller has vowed to pay off the Recklings' mortgage, alleviating some of the financial burden Jacqueline faces as a soon-to-be mother of four. A GoFundMe page has also been established to provide financial assistance to the family during this difficult time.
Jacqueline's heartfelt message to Americans is a poignant reminder of the importance of valuing and respecting law enforcement officers. "Brad was my best friend. We made such a great team together, and we were building such a beautiful life," she said, her voice trembling with grief. "We lost the rock of our family in addition to the community losing a detective."
"Brad loved his job, and he loved serving the community," Jacqueline continued. "He believed in making a difference, and he did. He was a hero to so many people, and he will be forever remembered as a true hero to our family."
