Summersville, WV – Summersville Police Lieutenant Aaron Acree was found deceased unexpectedly on Oct. 12.

His family is asking for privacy and has not released his cause of death.

“Though my heart and world is shattered right now, I am overwhelmed by the outpouring of love, prayers and wonderful things so many people are sharing with my family,” Lt. Acree’s father, Steve Acree wrote in a Facebook post on Oct. 15.

“I know Aaron is loved and appreciated by many, many people but, never in a million years would I have even dreamed that had touched so many lives in such a positive way,” Steve continued. “I have seen the comment ‘No words’ many times and that is where I have been since learning of my son’s passing.”

Another relative, Drew Acree, said the family was “shocked” to learn of Lt. Acree’s sudden death.

“It all happened at once and quick,” Drew wrote in a Facebook post. “The amount of support from everyone near and far is truly a blessing…you guys are truly helping us through this.”

“We love you Aaron Acree,” he said. “Fly high, rest easy, and hug all the ones that went before us.”

In an Oct. 12 tweet, West Virginia House of Delegates member Jordan Hill described Lt. Acree as “witty” and “hilarious,” and said he “had a huge heart for people.”

“It was an honor to know Aaron Acree,” Hill wrote. “Please keep our community, his family, friends and brothers in blue in your prayers today. May God comfort, bless & protect each one.”

Lt. Acree was laid to rest on Monday, his department said in a Facebook post.

Our thoughts and prayers are with the family of Summersville Police Lieutenant Aaron Acree, both blood and blue. Thank you for your service.

Rest easy, hero. We’ll hold the line from here.