Mathias Vieth, 41, was gunned downed down October 28 as he and another police officer attempted to perform a routine traffic check on two men riding a motorcycle.

The shooting, which left the other officer with a bullet graze injury prompted a manhunt through the woods near the Bavarian city, although the suspects – thought to have been involved in a drug deal – were not found.

On Monday, however, officials and officers tried to simply remember Vieth who has been described as dedicated to his family and serving the community. He was also remembered as a mentor to younger police officers.

At the entrance to the city’s catholic cathedral, officers formed a guard of honour.

Later Bishop Konrad Zdarsa spoke of a “vicious and brutal” crime that stole Vieth from the community he was trying to protect.

Joachim Herrmann, Bavaria’s interior minister, appeared to still be shaken by the shooting as he said: “It is very difficult for us to understand this horrible crime.”

The suspects remain at large and police say they lack any serious leads, said Gerhard Schlögl, a chief constable who is involved in the investigation.

About 400 tips received from the public are being analysed by a special commission. The reward can be claimed by anyone offering information leading to the capture of the perpetrators.

DAPD/The Local/mdm