Slain Capitol Police Officer Lies In Honor In Capitol Rotunda

WASHINGTON, DC — Capitol Police Officer William "Billy" Evans, who was killed in an attack outside the Capitol earlier this month, became the sixth private citizen to lie in honor in the U.S. Capitol Rotunda.

On Tuesday morning, President Joe Biden, Vice President Kamala Harris and congressional leaders attended a tribute ceremony to honor Evans whose casket was placed in the Capitol Rotunda.

Evans, a father of two who served for 18 years in the U.S. Capitol Police, was killed earlier this month when a driver rammed his vehicle into the north barricade of the Capitol complex. A second Capitol Police officer, Ken Shaver, was injured in the attack and is recovering from his injuries at home, according to the Capitol Police.

The suspect in the April 2 incident, 25-year-old Noah Green, was shot by at least one officer and later died.

Brian Sicknick, a U.S. Capitol Police officer who was killed during the Jan. 6 insurrection, also was given the honor of lying in the Capitol Rotunda in early February.

The honor bestowed upon Evans and Sicknick is one reserved traditionally for presidents, members of Congress and other dignitaries.

The other four private citizens to lie in honor in the Capitol Rotunda were the Rev. Billy Graham, who died in 2018; Rosa Parks, who died in 2005; Capitol Police Officer Jacob Chestnut, who was killed in 1998; and Capitol Police Detective John Gibson, who was also killed in 1998.

Evans, a resident of Burke, Virginia, "was the best father, son, brother, and friend anyone could ever hope for," his family said in a statement. "His death has left a gaping void in our lives that will never be filled."

"The absolute most important thing in his life was his two children, Logan and Abigail. His most cherished moments were those spent with them — building with Lego, having lightsaber duels, playing board games, doing arts and crafts, and recently finishing the Harry Potter series," the family said.

Evans' body arrived at the Capitol's East Front just after 10:30 a.m., and members of the Capitol Police looked on as his casket was carried up the steps into the Rotunda. A viewing will take place from noon to 6 p.m., with a ceremonial departure set for 6:30 p.m.