This story was posted on: 10:06 a.m., Wednesday, Jan. 18, 2017.
The capture of Markeith Loyd, who is accused in the slayings of ex-girlfriend Sade Dixon and Orlando Police officer Master Lt. Debra Clayton, has created an outpouring of gratitude towards law enforcement.
- Family, community leaders and people express their feelings about Markeith Loyd's capture
- RELATED story: Find out how Markeith Loyd was captured
After the capture of 41-year-old Loyd on Tuesday night, many throughout the community have been praising Orlando police officers for their arrest of the man accused in the shooting deaths of Dixon, who was pregnant with his child, and Clayton.
News 13's Facebook users took to an updated story post's comment sections to show their appreciation for law enforcement and the relief they have felt now that Loyd has been captured.
Valerie Vitiello was overjoyed with the news of Loyd's capture.
Dixon's family also expressed their emotions when they heard that Loyd was caught by law enforcement.
"It's a relief. It's a burden off our family," said Dixon's parents, Stephanie Dixon-Daniels and Ron Daniels. "We don't have to worry if this guy is going to show back up."
The family says it will return to the home along Long Peak Drive now that Loyd is caught. They also say Sade's surviving children are doing well.
District 5 Commissioner Regina Hill said she had full faith that law enforcement was "working around the clock" to bring Loyd to justice.
"I'm forever grateful that this cold-blooded killer is going to be brought to justice," said Hill.
Patty Sheehan, Orlando City commissioner for District 4, spoke about Clayton's just starting her life.
"Debra has just gotten married. And this family has had a tremendous loss. She was a good, spirited human being. She did so much for children. This is an unspeakable loss to this community. But justice is now served," Sheehan said.
Loyd's Facebook page, which is open to the public, exploded when news broke of his capture.
Another person on Loyd's page posted this message to law enforcement.
Citizens were not the only ones expressing thanks to law enforcement, as Orlando Mayor Buddy Dyer tweeted this out:
Thank you @OrlandoPolice &partners for capturing this fugitive. Prayers continue for families of fallen officers. https://t.co/vgDbIggWFB
— Mayor Buddy Dyer (@orlandomayor) January 18, 2017
The Orlando Police Department tweeted this message to the late Clayton.
You wore Badge #9 and we lost you on the 9th. 9 days later you were able to use your handcuffs one last time. RIP Lt Clayton pic.twitter.com/MddA3bbPdW
— Orlando Police (@OrlandoPolice) January 18, 2017