IRION COUNTY, Texas — Irion County and the town of Mertzon haven't dealt with something like this in a long time.
An alleged shooting suspect brought with him legions of law enforcement and helicopters dotting the sky as an intense manhunt spilled into the area.
However, the stress and anxiety of everything has brought the community together.
“After visiting with the community, it seems that it's something that we can probably handle to take care of ourselves if they show up on our property or if he shows up on our property,” Abby Lawdermilk said.
While it may be a worrying time for families with younger children, facilities like the school system and law enforcement have been doing their part in reassuring the community.
“You hear about stuff like this... somebody that's dangerous and his unknown whereabouts and you just fear for your safety," Chandel Canada said. "But then you have a great school district like what we have and it's very reassuring to know that they're safe. Then you see the presence of all the law enforcement and it just reassures it again and again, that we are truly safe and protected.”
Residents know that law enforcement had been working around the clock, banded together to show their appreciation to make them sack lunches.
“I just think this community has each other's backs and it's important for us to come together in times like this," Lawdermilk said. "A lot of my friends have been making sandwiches for the DPS and all the police officers close by so that's obviously been nice. That just goes to show that our community really works together well.”
At the end of the day, no matter how many suspects, helicopters, or police come through, the sense of community felt can triumph overall.
“My family and I've only been here five years, that I've never lived in a community where everybody had each other's backs like they do here.," Canada said. "If you ask Mertzon to show up, they're going to show."