SALEM, Ohio - The Salem Police Department will honor K-9 Simon with a public procession on Friday, Jan. 2, starting at 3 p.m.

The event follows the death of the police dog on Dec. 20. Simon served as a partner to his handler and a protector for the Salem community.

The motorcade will begin at the intersection of East State Street and Continental Drive. From there, the procession will move west through the city on State Street. When the vehicles reach Lincoln Avenue, they will turn north and continue toward F.E. Cope Drive.

The route will end at Salem High School, where the department will hold a memorial service.

Department officials said community members are welcome to stand along the streets to pay their respects. Organizers asked spectators to stay on public sidewalks and avoid parking on or entering private property during the event.

Simon’s handler said the support from the public over the last several days has helped the department as it manages the loss.