Jackson 's closed , solid-bronze casket , plated with 14-karat gold and lined with blue velvet , which was not originally expected to be at the memorial service Rite , arrived Arriving just before 10:00 a.m. local time , when it was placed Placing in front of the stage .

The robbers wore Wearing mostly homemade , heavy plated body armor which successfully protected Defending them from handgun rounds and shotgun pellets fired by the responding Response officers .