Jesse Mathews first became a familiar name to Chattanooga back on April 2nd, 2011.
That's the day he gunned down Sgt. Chapin.
News 12's Nordia Epps takes a look back at what's happened since that day.
Chief Bobby Dodd, "It's probably the most tragic thing you can go through. It's like losing a family member."
That's police chief Bobby Dodd at the Brainerd Road scene on April 2nd 2011.
Around 10:30 on a Saturday morning ...Jesse Mathews opens fire at police while trying to escape after holding up the U.S. Money Shop.
Officer Lorin Johnston is wounded.
Lorin Johnston, Chattanooga Police, " Ever since that day (emotional pause) it's been tough, very tough."
And Twenty-seven year veteran, Sgt. Tim Chapin does not survive.
Pastor Ron Phillips, "He didn't have to be out there. He chose to be there. He gave his life for this community. Make no mistake about it."
After some time in the hospital Mathews makes the first of many court appearances.
Prosecutors wanted the death penalty...and so did Sgt. Chapin's family.
Lisa Roberson, Sgt. Chapin's Sister, "I have a lot of anger..I'd like to get a hold of him. That's what I'd like to do."
We also met the cop killer's family. His parents Kathleen and Ray and his sister Rachel were charged with multiple counts related to helping Jesse get weapons and elude police.
They all pleaded guilty in deals that dismissed many of the lesser charges and got sentenced in February.
Bill Killian, U. S. Attorney, "These people assisted him not only to continue an escape but provided him with firearms."
Now another deal.
Jesse Mathews will spend the rest of his life plus 25 years in prison with no chance of parole...bringing an end to a tragic story.
With all the publicity surrounding the case, Judge Barry Steelman issued a gag order and agreed to get a jury from the Nashville area for the death penalty trial which was set to start next month.
Now that won't happen.
