Service honors St. Louis firefighter murdered last year

By Jeff Small

KSDK -- A candlelight service was held Thursday in memory of a St. Louis firefighter murdered one year ago.  Leonard Riggins was killed on his way home from work.

Through tears, family members lit candles with friends and firefighters who say Leonard Riggins was an inspiration and a one of a kind.

'"He was such a well respected member of the fire department and he was just a super individual," said St. Louis Fire Chief Dennis Jenkerson.

Last November, Riggins was on his way home when he witnessed a car accident.  Riggins got out his vehicle to help what he thought was a stranded driver.  The driver turned out to be a carjacker in a stolen car.  The suspect pulled a gun and fired one shot, striking Riggins in the chest and killing him.

"With God's help I have been able to make it one day at a time knowing that the only way I can keep Leonard's memory alive is to try and give back," said his widow, Darnita Riggins.

Riggins' family says this anniversary service is a big part of the healing process. They say one goal is to pass on Riggins belief in helping others.

"I want the community to know he is still alive in his spirit and his legacy will go on as long as I am alive," Darnita said.

Leonard Riggins is survived by his wife and two sons.

Authorities have arrested and charged 19-year-old Christopher Brandon with Riggins' murder.