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Former Orange Park classmates remember Georgia deputy killed in ambush-style shooting

A police officer killed during an ambush-style shooting Sunday in Georgia went to high school in Orange Park.

Peach County deputies said Sgt. Patrick Sondron was killed while responding to a call about a dispute on Sunday night.

Peach County Sheriff Terry Deese said the argument started after Ralph Stanley Elrod saw two young men riding ATVs near his house.

Elrod threatened them with a gun and neighbors called 911, deputies said.

When Sondron and Deputy Daryl Smallwood got to the home, Elrod fired more than 50 rounds from a handgun and rifle at them.

Sondron died shortly after the shooting and Smallwood died on Monday, according to officials.

Friends and family members in Orange Park are remembering and honoring their fallen classmate.

Sondron's wife and several of his Orange Park High School classmates expressed their condolences on Facebook.

"Let’s go black and blue for our classmate, friend and family, that lost his life in the line of duty,” several posts said.

Friends posted similar messages hours after he was murdered. They say he was killed doing what he loved the most, protecting and serving.

“We just believe that's the reason we're here. I know this is a difficult time for our community and our country,” said Pastor Tom Carruth with Byron United Methodist Church.

Carruth tried to encourage Sonfron's family, friends and fellow classmates Monday night.

“We really believe that light and love are going to overcome all forms of darkness and hatred and that's why we do what we do,” Carruth said.

The suspect was shot and is in police custody.