Orange County deputy killed in line of duty, laid to rest

ORANGE COUNTY, Fla. — Law enforcement agencies from across the state filled the parking lot of the First Baptist Church of Orlando Saturday as the viewing began for slain Orange County Deputy Jonathan Scott Pine.

Bagpipers, an Honor Guard and Top Brass saluted the 34-year-old’s family.

Pine’s life was cut short when he was shot to death Tuesday morning while trying to arrest an accused burglary suspect.

Gov. Rick Scott ordered all American and state flags be flown at half-staff for what he said is a reminder of the risks law enforcement officer take to ensure the safety of all Florida citizens.

Pine’s pastor talked about how Pine told his wife and three children it was his goal to make it home every morning.

Pine’s friend and fellow deputy said that Pine laid down his life to protect the community.

“It was like a piece of my heart was taken from me. I asked myself, how do you bury your best friend?” Deputy Scott Hepburn said.

It was made clear at the service that Pine was an LSU fan, a faithful friend, a loving father and devoted husband.

His wife years, Bridget wore his badge around her neck and deputy Pine's fellow officers promised to look after his family.

Orange County Sheriff Jerry also spoke at the funeral.

He said it was a solemn day for the Orange County Sheriff's Office

Following the service, a motorcade drove through Orlando to Woodland Cemetery in Winter Garden where Pine was buried.

Many family and friends from Louisiana were unable to attend Saturday's service.

WFTV spoke with one of Pine's childhood friends by phone about what he'll miss most about Pine.

"Just talking to him is what I'm going to miss most.  He was my oldest and dearest friend," Macc Niemann said.

Niemann also said he had known Pine since second grade and they were lifelong friends.

Pine’s friends are planning another memorial service in Louisiana next week.

Investigators said Pine was responding to reports of car break-ins on Westminster Abbey Boulevard when he confronted 28-year-old Benjamin Holtermann, who was armed and tried to run away from the deputy.

According to officials, Pine chased the suspect through nearby backyards but Holtermann opened fire, shooting and killing the deputy.

They said Holtermann then turned the gun on himself.

Holtermann’s girlfriend, Erica Pugh, was with him and in the neighborhood at the time of the shooting, authorities said. Investigators said she drove off as Pine fled on foot after a neighbor confronted them.

Investigators said Pugh was taken into custody a short time later and confessed to a recent armed robbery.

A judge denied her bond.

WFTV