Memorial service held for officer killed during World Police and Fire Games cycling event

Hundreds of mourners came together to remember an officer who died after a crash during a cycling event at the World Police and Fire Games.

It was a very emotional Catholic memorial service held at Reston Town Center for Carlos Silva. He traveled to the United States from Brazil to compete in the games.

But the 48-year-old will not return home. His journey ended with his tragic death.

At the memorial service, his inconsolable co-workers shared some words about Silva.

"He was a perfect man, a perfect father, co-worker, best friend and a human being that I can't explain with words," said Alexandre Manzan, one of Silva's teammates.

The Brazilian national anthem filled the air and a Catholic priest led a religious service during the memorial where Silva's emotional family members and teammates embraced one another. They were surrounded by competitors from around the world to honor him.

"You can't put it into words," said Ian Gallagher, an former London Metropolitan Police Officer. "Can you really? It's a disaster. It's absolutely catastrophic."

Hundreds of officers, firefighters, competitors, family members, friends and even total strangers attended the memorial service for the fallen officer who leaves behind a 13-year-old daughter.

"We definitely felt it was important to honor his memory and make sure all of the athletes had the opportunity to grieve or to commemorate him," said Bill Knight, CEO of the World Police and Fire Games.

"It's a horrible tragedy and Carlos loved competing," said Fairfax County Police Chief Edwin Roessler. "That was his passion in life."

Two other competitors in the cycling event were also seriously hurt.