BUFFALO, N.Y. (WIVB) -- The ninth annual Blue Pumpkins for Paws event kicked off this weekend, bringing the community together once again, this year in support of local animal rescue Diamonds in the Ruff.

Blue Pumpkins for Paws is a fundraiser held in memory of a fallen Buffalo police officer, Lieutenant Craig Lehner, who tragically lost his life in 2017.

“This event started after the tragic tragedy of Officer Craig Lehner going into the Niagara River during a training exercise and not coming out,” said friend Scott Milligan. “Craig was a great person. He loved going out there and talking to people and introducing himself, and I think Craig really brought the canine unit into the limelight of helping."

Scott said he served with Lieutenant Lehner, and for him this event is personal.

“I

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