The family of a Tarpon Springs police officer killed in the line of duty early Sunday says they are “shocked and devastated.”

The family of Charles Kondek released a statement through Paula O'Neil, Clerk and Comptroller for Pasco County, on Monday. It read in part:

“Charlie was a loving husband and devoted father. As a law enforcement officer he served with compassion and worked hard to keep our community safe. We are shocked and devastated by this tragedy that has taken Charlie away from us.”

Kondek's wife, Teresa, works for the Clerk's office. O'Neil said losing him at this time of year is particularly hard for the family.

"Christmas was Charlie's favorite holiday. You know, as a family man, so you can only imagine," she said.

O'Neil read the statement standing in front of a memorial outside the Tarpon Springs Police Department that continues to grow. People are leaving balloons, flowers, sympathy cards and even food.

O'Neil said the family is very "thankful" for the outpouring of support. She said they are also thinking about others in the law enforcement community.

"We send our unending gratitude to law enforcement who sacrifices for our safety," she read. "Our family prays for the spouses and children of law enforcement heros that they may be kept safe from these senseless acts of violence."

O'Neil also said Kondek and his wife were "best friends" and she called him a "hero."

Marco Antonio Parilla Jr., 23, has been arrested on suspicion of first-degree murder.

Authorities say Officer Kondek responded to a noise call around 2 a.m. at an apartment complex. They say Parilla was pounding on doors before he walked over and fired at the officer.

Authorities say the suspect then fled the scene and put the car in reverse, backing up over Kondek. Parilla was caught after a brief pursuit and crash.

Kondek, 45, was a 17-year veteran of the department who worked many years on the midnight shift, officials said.

Originally from New York, he spent five years as an officer with the New York City Police Department before moving to Florida.