ARVADA, Colo. (KDVR) — John Hurley “is a true hero,” according to Arvada Police Chief Link Strate.

Hurley, 40, of Golden, was killed in Olde Town on Monday when a gunman opened fire. Officer Gordon Beesley was also killed, along with the shooter.

According to Strate, Hurley “likely disrupted what could have been a larger loss of life.”

One of Hurley’s friends said Hurley would give the shirt off his back to anyone who needed it and described him as an everyman, who would work more than 100 hours a week as a caterer.

Cody Souels, who went to high school with Hurley, said he would want to be known for being “outspoken” and doing difficult things.

“That doesn’t surprise me. I mean, he seems like he would stand up for somebody if there was something going on,” Souels said.

A friend of Hurley’s has launched a GoFundMe.

FOX31 has a team of reporters working to learn more about Hurley’s heroics and his life before it came to a tragic end. Check back for updates as they become available.

Donations for Officer Beesley’s family and funeral expenses can be made through the Colorado Fallen Hero Foundation website. The Arvada Police Department has also set up a web form for people wishing to make non-monetary donations.

A GoFundMe has been set up by Johnny Hurley’s family.