Jay Leno Shows Love To Fallen Deputy’s Family During Michigan Visit
Jay Leno, a legendary figure in the world of comedy and cars, made a heartfelt visit to town for the Woodward Dream Cruise, but it wasn't just the classic cars that brought him here.
As an avid car enthusiast and host of Jay Leno's Garage, it was no surprise to hear the superstar comedian was in town for the legendary cruise. Leno has made his way to Detroit this year for two big reasons. One was to pick up his 1963 Chrysler Turbine Car, an experimental coupe built by Chrysler, and the other was to spread some love.
In a touching gesture, Leno made time to meet with the family of Deputy Bradley Reckling, who was tragically killed in the line of duty. He didn’t come empty-handed—he brought toys for Deputy Reckling’s children, including Barbies.
Deputy Reckling, who was a nine-year veteran of the Oakland County Sheriff’s Office, was killed on June 22nd when he was pursuing a stolen SUV. When he stopped the vehicle on Detroit’s east side, the youths in the car leaped out and shot him repeatedly at close range. Reckling, who was only 30, was married and the father of three daughters, ages 5, 4, and 1. His wife, Jacqueline, is expecting a fourth child.
"I can tell you he was very touched personally about the loss and immediately offered to help contribute resources and toys and his time to try to show his support and love for a family he didn't even know," Oakland County Sheriff Mike Bouchard and friend of Leno told us. "He has one of the biggest hearts that I have ever seen."
Sheriff Bouchard said Leno had reached out to him and arranged to have the toys shipped to his office ahead of his visit and then made the time to deliver them himself.
Again we say, sometimes heroes don't wear capes.
A Look Inside Jay Leno's Newport Mansion
Gallery Credit: Maddie Levine
LOOK: These Are the Best Places to Live in America
Gallery Credit: Stacker