Thousands Mourn Slain Minnesota Deputy [VIDEO]

AITKEN, Minn. (AP) — More than 3,000 people, including 2,000 law officers, gathered in Aitken to pay tribute to a sheriff's deputy who was killed in the line of duty.

Aitken County Sheriff's Deputy Steven Sandberg was remembered Friday as a quiet person with an inner strength.

Sandberg was a 24-year veteran of the department. He was fatally shot on Sunday at St. Cloud Hospital when a man he was monitoring grabbed his firearm.

Sandberg was also a volunteer firefighter for 17 years. He is survived by his wife and daughter. The Star Tribune reports (http://strib.mn/1NYnvog ) that his daughter Cassie Sandberg said her dad was her biggest fan.

Gov. Mark Dayton has ordered all U.S. and Minnesota state flags be flown at half-staff in Sandberg's honor.