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Law Enforcement Officers Killed in Line of Duty 2016: Full List [PHOTOS]

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Dallas Vigil, Dallas Strong, Dallas victims, #DallasStrong

On July 11, Dallas officials and citizens gathered outside City Hall for a vigil to honor the five police officers killed by a sniper on July 7. (Getty)

They were veteran officers and rookies. They were ambushed, they were shot, and they were struck by cars and drunk drivers. Some were targeted simply because they were police officers who signed up to serve.

In many cases, they were fathers and mothers, spouses, and military veterans, including multiple officers previously deployed to Iraq and Afghanistan. Many of them left behind small children to grieve. A few were shot accidentally, two perished from a September 11, 2001-related cancers, and others succumbed to injuries from long-ago crashes.

They worked for Homeland Security, tribal and Puerto Rican police, local Police Departments, transit departments, federal and state agencies, and Sheriff’s Departments. One was thrown from a horse during a parade, one was killed by friendly fire, and two drowned. Some were correctional officers murdered by inmates. It was a very hard year for law enforcement as rhetoric escalation against those who serve.

Altogether, there were 135 law enforcement officers killed in the line of duty in the United States in 2016. Their life stories varied somewhat, but to a one they were described as dedicated public servants who embraced the job and for whom it should not have been the time to go. Some left behind pregnant wives.

Of those officers, more than 60 died in shootings, reported Fox News, a 68 percent increase over the previous year. Many of the remaining officers died in traffic accidents. CNN reported 64 died in shootings, over the annual average.

That’s the highest number of LEO deaths since 2011, Time Magazine said.

Assassinations of police officers in Dallas, Texas and Baton Rouge, Louisiana helped drive a sharp increase over 2015. Twenty-one officers were killed in ambush-style attacks “often fueled by anger over police use of force involving minorities,” said CBS News.

In their wake, their deaths mobilized communities to rally around the families left behind, creating heartbreaking images of children at caskets and widows with faces etched in grief.

Here is a full list of the officers who died in the line of duty by state in 2016, according to the Officer Down Memorial Page.

Homeland Security

Special Agent Scott McGuire
United States Department of Homeland Security – Immigration and Customs Enforcement – Homeland Security Investigations, US
Died: January 24, 2016
Vehicular assault

McGuire was struck by a vehicle in Miami, Florida. He is survived by a wife and 5-year-old child. NOLA.com reported that McGuire was trying to hail a cab when a car ran over the curb and struck him.

Jordana Rosales, 21, a college student was accused of the hit and run, said the newspaper. A GoFundMe site was established to help McGuire’s family. The site says: “There is no doubt heaven will be a happier & funnier place with Scott there. We will all be safer here on earth with Scott watching over us. That is who Scott is.”

Border Patrol Agent Jose Daniel Barraza
United States Department of Homeland Security – Customs and Border Protection – United States Border Patrol, US
Died: April 18, 2016
Automobile accident

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Barraza was killed in a two-vehicle accident near Sierra Blanca, Texas, US Customs and Border Protection said. His canine partner was in the vehicle but not seriously injured. He was 29-years-old and survived by his wife and two children.

Deportation Officer Brian Beliso
United States Department of Homeland Security – Immigration and Customs Enforcement – Office of Enforcement and Removal Operations, US
Died: June 8, 2016
Heart attack

brian beliso

Brian Beliso. (YouCaring)

According to a YouCaring site organized to help raise money for his funeral expenses, Beliso was a “beloved husband, son, brother, and father of three (Noah, 7, Sophia, 5, and Bella, 1).” He passed away suddenly on June 8th from a heart attack. “His family is devastated and struggling to cope with their new reality. Brian was a naturally selfless man. As an officer with US Immigration and Customs Enforcement, he lived a life of service for his country and took it for granted that it was just all part of his job,” the site says.

Border Patrol Agent Manuel Alvarez
United States Department of Homeland Security – Customs and Border Protection – United States Border Patrol, US
Died: August 11, 2016
Motorcycle accident

Agent Alvarez was killed while riding a dirt bike on duty, and he left behind a wife and four children, said Officer.com. He was described by a colleague as a “great guy,” said the site.

Border Patrol Agent David Gomez
United States Department of Homeland Security – Customs and Border Protection – United States Border Patrol, US
EDied: November 16, 2016
Heart attack

Agent Gomez died of a heart attack while on bike patrol.

His obituary said he had a wife and three children and had been a Border Patrol agent for 20 years.

Deputy Commander Patrick Thomas Carothers
United States Department of Justice – United States Marshals Service, US
Died: November 18, 2016
Gunfire

AJC.com reported that Carothers, a married father of five, was killed by a fugitive as he tried to execute a warrant at his trailer. The newspaper described him as a “dedicated lawman” with 26 years of service.

Alabama

Correctional Officer Kenneth Bettis
Alabama Department of Corrections, AL
Died: September 16, 2016
Stabbed

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Bettis was stabbed to death by an inmate. Inmate Cleveland Cunningham was accused of stabbing Bettis because Bettis allegedly wouldn’t give him an extra tray of food in the dining hall, said AL.com.

Bettis was a military veteran who was described as firm, fair, and respected for his work ethic, said the newspaper.

Alaska

Sergeant Allen Brandt
Fairbanks Police Department, AK
Died: October 28, 2016
Gunfire

Shot six times in the line of duty, Brandt survived only to die from complications of eye surgery performed as a result of the injuries. He was shot after responding to a shots fired report, and he left behind a wife and four children, reported ADN.com.

He was well enough after the shooting to attend a Common Council meeting. Brandt was a violinist, a pilot, and a police officer with “exceptional investigatory skills,” KTVA-TV reported.

Arkansas

Corporal Bill Cooper
Sebastian County Sheriff’s Office, AR
Died: August 10, 2016
Gunfire

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Cooper was remembered in the U.S. House of Representatives:

The corporal was shot in the neck when he responded to a domestic violence call, according to NBC News. He was a former Marine who was described as dynamic and loyal to his job, reported NBC.

Police Officer Robert Aaron Barker
McCrory Police Department, AR
Died: September 15, 2016
Automobile accident

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The officer, 26, died when his patrol car struck a deer on the way to a call. He had been on the force four years.

Corrections Officer Lisa Mauldin
Miller County Sheriff’s Office, AR
Died: December 19, 2016
Assault

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Mauldin was attacked by an inmate in the kitchen area of the jail. He allegedly claimed he was upset she had “messed” with his life.

Arizona

Police Officer David Van Glasser
Phoenix Police Department, AZ
Died: May 19, 2016
Gunfire

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Van Glasser was shot when he responded to a call, and encountered a suspect accused of waiting in his car and then firing at the arriving officer.

AZ.com reported that the officer was known as a good man and cop who had a wife and two small children.

Police Officer Darrin Reed
Show Low Police Department, AZ
Died: November 8, 2016
Gunfire

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Reed, 50, was shot by a gunman in a confrontation outside a hotel. He was remembered as a hero who was a big brother to others on the force, reported AZ.com. He was also a father and grandfather.

California

Deputy Sheriff Scott Ballantyne
Tulare County Sheriff’s Office, CA
Died: February 10, 2016
Aircraft accident

Ballantyne died in a law enforcement plane crash while responding to a report of a man with a gun.

Ballantyne was a respected officer with a lengthy record of service.

Officer Nathan Taylor
California Highway Patrol, CA
Died: March 13, 2016
Struck by vehicle

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Taylor was helping direct traffic for a previous collision when another driver allegedly changed lanes and struck him, reported KCRA-TV. The television station reported that Taylor left behind a wife and three sons and was described as genuine and caring, an officer who often received thank you letters.

Police Officer Michael Jason Katherman
San Jose Police Department, CA
Died: June 14, 2016
Motorcycle accident

Officer Katherman died when a mini van allegedly turned in front of his police motorcycle.

The officer had a wife and two children and was described as loving his family and his job, according to ABC 7-TV.

Police Officer Jonathan M. DeGuzman
San Diego Police Department, CA
Died: July 28, 2016
Gunfire

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DeGuzman was shot and killed pointblank when he and another officer stopped to talk to two pedestrians, reported The San Diego Union Tribune.

The newspaper said he left behind a wife and children and had survived being stabbed in the past. DeGuzman was a gang unit officer who was an immigrant who was remembered for his life of service, said the newspaper.

Sergeant Steve Owen
Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department, CA
Died: October 5, 2016
Gunfire

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A parolee who allegedly had a stolen gun is accused of executing Owen after Owen approached him outside an apartment building, reported The Los Angeles Times.

The Times described Owen as “a 29-year veteran of the Sheriff’s Department and a Medal of Valor recipient, was a well-known sergeant who volunteered as a football coach in the community.”

Police Officer Lesley Zerebny
Palm Springs Police Department, CA
Died: October 8, 2016
Gunfire

Zerebny died when she responded to a domestic disturbance call, said the Desert Sun. The suspect is accused of firing at Zerebny and another officer “with an AR-15 assault rifle and armor-piercing ammunition,” the newspaper said, when they went to the door.

She was remembered as spirited, bright and dedicated to her job. She was married to a law enforcement officer, and they had a four-month-old daughter.

Police Officer Jose Gilbert Vega
Palm Springs Police Department, CA
Died: October 8, 2016
Gunfire

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Vega died in the same incident as Zerebny. In this heartbreaking photo, his daughter is holding Zerebny’s infant:

The suspect, a gang member, was accused of setting a trap to ambush the officers, The Los Angeles Times reported.

Vega, a 35-year force veteran, had put his paperwork for retirement and was a married father of eight who was working overtime and was remembered as a dedicated officer, said The Times.

Deputy Sheriff Jack Hopkins
Modoc County Sheriff’s Office, CA
Died: October 19, 2016
Gunfire

Hopkins was shot and instantly killed when he responded to a disturbance call.

Hopkins held a world championship title in karate who was known to keep his word, and his grandfather was a mayor, The LA Times reported.

Sergeant Alfonso Lopez
Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department, CA
Died: October 24, 2016
Automobile accident

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Lopez was responding to the pursuit of a stolen vehicle when his squad car crashed, reported KTLA-TV.

A 26-year veteran with a wife and children, Lopez may have suffered a medical emergency, the television station reported.

Sergeant Rod Lucas
Fresno County Sheriff’s Office, CA
Died: October 31, 2016
Gunfire (Accidental)

Lucas, 46, a 20-year veteran, was accidentally killed when a colleague’s gun went off in an office, reported The Fresno Bee.

The newspaper said that Lucas was a married father of four and a grandfather who was active in his church and was described as a leader.

Deputy Sheriff Dennis Wallace
Stanislaus County Sheriff’s Department, CA
Died: November 13, 2016
Gunfire

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Wallace was shot in the head at close range after spotting a stolen van, reported The Modesto Bee.

Wallace, who was shot execution style, according to the sheriff, was the son and brother of law enforcement officers and was involved in “youth soccer, refereed football games and taught children how to avoid drugs and violence as part of the D.A.R.E. program,” reported KCRA-TV.

Colorado

Deputy Sheriff Derek Geer
Mesa County Sheriff’s Office, CO
Died: February 8, 2016
Gunfire

Derek Geer

Derek Geer. (GoFundMe)

According to a GoFundMe site in his memory, “while responding to a call regarding a suspicious male carrying a gun, Deputy Derek Geer, with the Mesa County Sheriff’s Office, was shot numerous times and subsequently killed by the armed suspect. Deputy Geer was a beloved member of his agency, as well as a husband, son, Navy veteran, and father of two children.”

Corporal Nate Carrigan
Park County Sheriff’s Office, CO
Died: February 24, 2016
Gunfire

Deputies went to the home of a man who had failed to make his mortgage payments and a gun battle ensued, CBS Denver reported. In it, 72 gunshots were likely fired, said the TV station.

Carrigan’s family has raised a series of questions about the death, saying it didn’t need to happen.

Deputy Sheriff Travis Russell
Las Animas County Sheriff’s Office, CO
Died: March 1, 2016
Automobile accident

Russell, 44, died in a rollover crash while on duty.

Russell, who was survived by his wife and three children, was remembered for his lengthy career in law enforcement and “his witty sense of humor and playful spirit. His family was always his top priority,” reported KRTN radio.

Trooper Cody James Donahue
Colorado State Patrol, CO
Died: November 25, 2016
Struck by vehicle

Trooper Donahue died when he was struck by a semi truck driver, reported 9News.com.

The trooper was remembered as a loving married father of two who “led by example and by being a genuinely good man,” the TV station reported.

Florida

Deputy Sheriff John Robert Kotfila, Jr.
Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office, FL
Died: March 12, 2016
Vehicular assault

Deputy Kotfila was killed when his squad car struck a one-way driver. Another motorist said the deputy had purposely driven into the one-way driver in order to save her life and prevent the driver from striking her, proclaiming him a hero, WFLA-TV reported.

The 30-year-old deputy helped find a program to help special needs children find homes, according to the TV station.

Sergeant Jorge Ramos
Florida Department of Corrections, FL
Died: May 1, 2016
Heart attack

Sergeant Ramos died two days after he was part of a statewide Correctional Emergency Response Team competition, said ABC 10.

He was survived by his wife and young daughter, and a fundraising site has been established to create a college scholarship for Ramos’ daughter.

Deputy Sheriff Scott Williams
Taylor County Sheriff’s Office, FL
Died: October 31, 2016
Automobile accident

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Williams, 46, died when he rear-ended a logging truck while on duty, reported WCTV.

It was believed the officer, who left behind a wife and children, may have suffered a medical emergency.

Police Officer Jorge Sanchez
Miami Police Department, FL
Died: November 1, 2016
Automobile accident

Officer Sanchez, a motorcycle officer, was killed in a chain collision allegedly caused by another motorist and that injured many others. He was rear-ended.

He was remembered for his “dignity, strength, and professionalism,” NBC Miami reported.

Deputy Sheriff Eric James Oliver
Nassau County Sheriff’s Office, FL
Died: November 22, 2016
Struck by vehicle

A twice-deported felon in the United States illegally is accused in the death of deputy Oliver, a married father who was struck by a vehicle while pursuing a suspect on foot.

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Oliver was described as a former Navy man who loved his family and was a hard worker.

Georgia

Major Gregory E. Barney
Riverdale Police Department, GA
Died: February 11, 2016
Gunfire

Major Barney was shot as he tried to serve a no-knock search warrant and the suspect allegedly ran out a door and fired his gun.

A post office was named in Barney’s honor. He left behind a wife and 15-year-old twin sons and was remembered for his devotion to protecting the community.

Investigator Anthony “TJ” Freeman
Bibb County Sheriff’s Office, GA
Died: May 5, 2016
Vehicle pursuit

A suspect is accused of driving his vehicle into the car of Freeman, 29, a K-9 officer who was pursuing a suspicious vehicle, Macon.com reported.

Freeman was remembered as a hero, the newspaper said, quoting the sheriff as saying, ““He passed away from us doing what he loved … to protect and to serve the citizens of this community. He’s a hero.”

Police Officer Timothy Kevin Smith
Eastman Police Department, GA
Died: August 13, 2016
Gunfire

Officer Smith, who was 30, was shot and killed when he approach a suspicious person at an intersection. He left behind a fiancee and children.

Smith, known as Turtle, was a former truck driver who became a police officer to follow in the footsteps of his law enforcement father, reported Macon.com.

Sergeant Patrick Michael Sondron
Peach County Sheriff’s Office, GA
Died: November 6, 2016
Gunfire

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Sergeant Sondron had gone to investigate a report that a neighbor was upset about people riding three-wheelers. The suspect is accused of ambushing the officer and another, shooting them, reported WSBT-TV.

He was remembered as a shift supervisor and family man, the TV station said.

Deputy Sheriff Daryl Smallwood
Peach County Sheriff’s Office, GA
Died: November 8, 2016
Gunfire

Smallwood died after being shot in the same incident as Sgt. Sondron. He left behind two children. His best friend remembered the former Marine at his memorial service, saying, “He was a good man, an excellent father, a great cop, a loving son, and the greatest best friend you could ever ask for,” Macon.com reported.

Deputy Sheriff Justin White
Newton County Sheriff’s Office, GA
Died: November 15, 2016
Automobile accident

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White left behind a girlfriend and 2-year-old child. He lost control of his squad car while responding to a medical emergency, reported The Rockdale Newton Citizen.

Police Officer Nicholas Ryan Smarr
Americus Police Department, GA
Died: December 7, 2016
Gunfire

A suspect gunned Smarr down as he responded to a domestic violence call. He was remembered as nice, and respectful, and a dedicated police officer.

Smarr tried to perform CPR on another wounded officer before dying, AJC.com reported.

Public Safety Officer Jody Carl Smith
Georgia Southwestern State University Department of Public Safety, GA
Died: December 8, 2016
Gunfire

Smith died in the same incident as Nicholas Smarr, and the two officers were best friends. His obituary says of Smith, 25, “Jody truly loved his family: his mama, daddy, stepdad, siblings, nieces and nephews; several aunts, uncles, and cousins; and his fiancée, Sarah. He loved golfing and watching the Braves, and spending quality time with the bros. To know him was to love him. Jody had a heart of gold and sparkling blue eyes that lit up a room. He loved everyone and was a best friend to all.”

Illinois

Correctional Officer Adam Conrad
Marion County Sheriff’s Office, IL
Died: January 20, 2016
Automobile accident

According to Law Enforcement Today, Conrad, 22, “was conducting a prisoner transfer for a court appointment when he lost control of the transport van on the snow covered and icy roadway.” He was a new correctional officer who was survived by his parents and brother, the site said.

Police Officer Scot Fitzgerald
South Jacksonville Police Department, IL
Died: March 4, 2016
Automobile accident

Fitzgerald, 32, was killed when an ambulance responding to an emergency struck his squad car.

His wife wrote a letter that said, according to the State Journal-Register: “My husband loved his time within the law enforcement profession and was honored to serve and protect the public. I would like to thank all the members of our law enforcement community for the outpouring of love and support they have shown us.”

“Scot was a devoted husband, father, son, brother and friend,” she wrote. “He will be deeply missed by all who knew him.”

Patrol Officer Jason Gallero
Cook County Sheriff’s Police Department, IL
Died: September 15, 2016
Duty related illness

Gallero, 45, a police instructor, collapsed after a run at a police training facility, according to The Chicago Tribune.

He died of heart disease and was survived by his daughter, the newspaper said.

Police Officer James Brockmeyer
Chester Police Department, IL
Died: October 28, 2016
Vehicle pursuit

Brockmeyer died after his squad car crashed in a pursuit of a fleeing suspect. He was remembered as a dedicated police officer who also served as a volunteer firefighter in his small town, according to BlueLivesMatter.

Indiana

Deputy Sheriff Carl A. Koontz
Howard County Sheriff’s Office, IN
Died: March 20, 2016
Gunfire

Deputy Koontz was shot and killed while serving a search warrant for a wanted criminal; a shootout ensued.

He was survived by a wife and son. A service dog was named in his honor.

Iowa

Police Officer Susan Louise Farrell
Des Moines Police Department, IA
Died: March 26, 2016
Vehicular assault

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Officer Farrell, a young mother and wife, was transporting a prisoner with another officer when a car traveling the wrong way struck their vehicle.

According to the Des Moines Register, the police chief said Farrell’s was a life cut too short, a career ended too soon. (She) had so much more to do, amazing things to be accomplished in all those very important roles” as wife, mother, daughter, sister, friend and police officer.”

Police Officer Carlos Puente-Morales
Des Moines Police Department, IA
Died: March 26, 2016
Vehicular assault

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Puente-Morales died in the same crash as Officer Farrell. According to his obituary, Puente-Morales’ “law enforcement career began in Eldora, Iowa at the jail and continued in Dows and Ottumwa as a police officer before moving to Des Moines. Since April 27, 2015 he had worked as a Des Moines Police Officer for the 3rd Watch Patrol and was well respected by his fellow officers. Carlos earned his B.S. degree in criminal justice. He served in the Iowa Army National Guard as a SSG and served in Iraq and Afghanistan. He was very disciplined and had high expectations for his soldiers but they respected and trusted him. Carlos earned a combat infantry badge and an Army achievement medal. He was an active member of the Knights of Columbus.”

He left behind three children and a woman described in the obituary as his soulmate.

Sergeant Shawn Miller
West Des Moines Police Department, IA
Died: August 3, 2016
Automobile accident

Sgt. Miller was killed on his motorcycle while returning from court, where he was testifying as a police officer.

The newspaper said Miller was remembered “as a leader who found ways big and small to touch the community he served as a police officer for 26 years.”

Police Officer Justin Scott Martin
Urbandale Police Department, IA
Died: November 2, 2016
Gunfire

Police say Martin and another officer were killed in separate shootings about 20 minutes apart in Urbandale and Des Moines. They were both shot while sitting in their patrol vehicles, which were found covered with bullets.

He was remembered as a “a kind, gentle, compassionate man who was always concerned with serving the public.”

Sergeant Anthony David Beminio
Des Moines Police Department, IA
Died: November 2, 2016
Gunfire

Officer Beminio was killed in the same ambush as Martin. His obituary said: “Tony began his law enforcement career in 2001 when he took the oath to protect and serve with the Indianola Police Department. In 2005, Tony transferred to Des Moines and was currently serving as one of the Des Moines Police Department’s finest. He took a leadership role when he achieved the rank of Sergeant. Tony also served in many areas of the department including the Metro S.T.A.R. Team. Tony was a humble man who was honored and dedicated to protect and serve the community. He also spent time as a school resource officer (SRO) at local schools, and was loved and respected by his brothers and sisters in blue.

Tony was also a devoted husband to his wife, Zoe, and wonderful father to his three children, Cameron, Haley, and Maddox. He was an avid St. Louis Cardinals and Iowa Hawkeyes fan, and enjoyed deer hunting and riding his Harley Davidson. Most of all, Tony treasured time spent with Zoe, attending his children’s athletic events, and being together as a family.”

Kansas

Detective Brad D. Lancaster
Kansas City Police Department, KS
Died: May 9, 2016
Gunfire

Lancaster was shot after responding to a call for assistance from other officers in a pursuit of a suspicious person at a casino.

He was a married father of two, an Air Force veteran, and remembered for his kindness and tenacity, said Kansas City.com.

Captain Robert David Melton
Kansas City Police Department, KS
Died: July 19, 2016
Gunfire

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Melton had responded to an armed disturbance and a suspect fired a bullet that went through a window and killed him, reported KMBC-TV.

Melton’s obituary said he “served in the Kansas Army National Guard as an enlisted soldier from 1986 to 1997. He was then commissioned as a 2 nd Lieutenant in the KSARNG and served as an officer from 1997 until his retirement in 2012. He served in Iraq with the Field Artillery Brigade and Afghanistan with ADT #3 and was awarded the Bronze Star, Meritorious Service, Army Commendation, Achievement, Iraqi Campaign, Afghanistan Campaign, NATO Afghanistan Service Medals and the Combat Action Badge.”

He left behind a significant other and many children and step children, and he was also a veteran law enforcement officer.

Master Deputy Sheriff Brandon Collins
Johnson County Sheriff’s Office, KS
Died: September 11, 2016
Vehicular assault

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Collins was killed by a suspected drunk driver who is accused of rear ending his squad car as he was stopped for a traffic stop.

Collins had just celebrated his daughter’s 4-year-old birthday, Kansas City.com reported, adding that he was a 21-year veteran known as a “vibrant” person.

Louisiana

Sergeant Derrick Mingo
Winnsboro Police Department, LA
Died: June 4, 2016
Automobile accident

Sgt. Mingo lost control of his car just steps away from his door.

Mingo was “in route to assist another officer pursuing a drunk driver” and encountered wet roads.

Police Officer Natasha Maria Hunter
New Orleans Police Department, LA
Died: June 7, 2016
Vehicular assault

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The mother of a 5-year-old and an 11-year-old police veteran, Hunter was killed by an accused drunk driver.

Deputy Sheriff David Francis Michel, Jr.
Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office, LA
Died: June 22, 2016
Gunfire

Michel’s slaying was horrific; the suspect is accused of shooting Michel and then grabbing him by the hair as he tried to crawl to safety and shooting him again, reported NOLA.com.

Michel had stopped and tried to search a suspicious man.

Michel, a married father of one and a grandfather who had small parts in Hollywood movies, was dedicated to his police officer job, his family said, according to NOLA.com.

Sergeant David Kyle Elahi
Sterlington Police Department, LA
Died: July 3, 2016
Vehicular assault

Police allege that alcohol was a factor relating to the driver of a vehicle that struck Elahi as he worked a traffic stop.

According to his obituary, “David was a sergeant with the Sterlington Police Department, as well as a local business owner and real estate investor. David was a member of Delta Sigma Phi Fraternity and Foundry United Methodist Church of Sterlington. David took pride in protecting and investing in the community in which he resided and loved. David is survived by his fiancé, Donna Parsley; his 2 year old daughter Alba Elahi; and an expected child due in January 2017.”

Corporal Montrell Lyle Jackson
Baton Rouge Police Department, LA
EOW: Sunday, July 17, 2016
Cause of Death: Gunfire

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Jackson was one of three Baton Rouge police officers murdered in an ambush.

The 32-year-old Jackson was a married father of a small boy. Jackson, who was remembered as a loyal and dedicated officer, had written this post on Facebook before the shootings:

“I swear to God I love this city but I wonder if this city loves me,” he wrote. “In uniform I get nasty hateful looks and out of uniform some consider me a threat. I’ve experienced so much in my short life and these last 3 days have tested me to the core. When people you know begin to question your integrity you realize they don’t really know you at all. Look at my actions they speak LOUD and CLEAR. Finally I personally want to send prayers out to everyone directly affected by this tragedy. These are trying times. Please don’t let hate infect your heart. This city MUST and WILL get better. I’m working in these streets so any protesters, officers, friends, family, or whoever, if you see me and need a hug or want to say a prayer. I got you.”

Deputy Sheriff Bradford Allen Garafola
East Baton Rouge Parish Sheriff’s Office, LA
Died: July 17, 2016
Gunfire

Garafola was also killed in the Baton Rouge ambush. Garafola, 45, was working extra duty when he was ambushed and shot. His wife and the mother of his child told The Advocate, “Everybody on this street depended on him,” and said Garafola was devoted to his family.

Police Officer Matthew Lane Gerald
Baton Rouge Police Department, LA
Died: July 17, 2016
Gunfire

Officer Gerald was killed in the Baton Rouge shooting. His wife realized she was pregnant with his child two weeks after the shooting, CNN reported. The couple had two other children.

Gerald was a new officer who had joined “the Army as a specialist and worked with Blackhawk helicopters. In his time of service, he did three tours in Iraq and earned numerous awards, including four air medals, three good conduct medals,” reported WAFB-TV.

Police Officer Shannon Brown
Fenton Police Department, LA
Died: August 13, 2016
Struck by vehicle

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Brown was struck by a vehicle while he was conducting a traffic stop, according to KPLC-TV.

His obituary says, “Upon graduation from high school, Mr. Brown utilized his love for people, his boisterous personality, and his desire to make a difference as he joined the law enforcement community. Shannon served for 13 years as a Corporal with the Calcasieu Parish Sheriff’s Department and later joined the Fenton Police Department where he served as an F3 Officer for 3 years. During his time as a public servant, Shannon gave of himself selflessly; he loved his job and willingly provided assistance to anyone in need.

Shannon had a large personality and loved to make others laugh; he found great pleasure in bringing joy to others. His most prized accomplishments in his life were his children and the love he had for his family and friends; he demonstrated this often through spontaneous cookouts and small speeches that he considered his ‘words of wisdom.’ Everyone who knew him, had some name, saying, or special connection that only Shannon could ignite within them.”

He was survived by seven children, the obituary said.

Police Officer Jude Williams Lewis
New Orleans Police Department, LA
Died: November 8, 2016
Automobile accident

The Advocate said that Lewis died from injuries he suffered in 2001. “Lewis, an Army veteran who joined the NOPD in 1998, was behind the wheel of a police cruiser as he rushed to respond to a report of a fleeing assault suspect on June 1, 2001,” the newspaper said, adding that his car struck a tree and he was in a coma.

Goes Heroes says “He was unable to speak or walk, however, according to his sister, Officer Lewis was a ‘fighter’ and ‘he never gave up.'”

Maryland

Senior Deputy Mark F. Logsdon
Harford County Sheriff’s Office, MD
Died: February 10, 2016
Gunfire

A GoFundMe site set up in Logsdon’s name says, “Mark Logsdon, a 16-year veteran of the Harford County Sheriff’s Office, was killed on duty 2/10/16. He was responding to a fleeing suspect that had just shot another Harford County Sheriff’s deputy. Sheriff Gahler said, ‘It does appear that Mark was able to return fire, at least three rounds.’ The suspect was subsequently killed, as well.

Mark is survived by his wife, three children and his parents. Mark was also a US Army veteran.”

Senior Deputy Patrick B. Dailey
Harford County Sheriff’s Office, MD
Died: February 10, 2016
Gunfire

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A police K-9 was named after Deputy Dailey. Dailey was shot with Deputy Logsdon when they responded to a restaurant to a report of a suspicious person who is accused of opening fire.

The Baltimore Sun reported that Dailey “had been part of the Sheriff’s Office Special Response Team and the honor guard, watching over caskets of fallen officers before him, in addition to his service with the fire company and in the Marine Corps.” He was the father of two sons.

Police Officer I Jacai D. Colson
Prince George’s County Police Department, MD
Died: March 13, 2016
Gunfire (Accidental)

Colson was accidentally shot by another police officer during an ambush against the police department; that officer did not realize Colson was a police officer because he wasn’t wearing his uniform, reported WUSA9.

No charges were filed in the case. Colson had fired his weapon to try to protect the department against the assailants.

Colson, the grandson of a police officer, was described as a cop’s cop with an infectious smile.

Massachusetts

Trooper Thomas L. Clardy
Massachusetts State Police, MA
Died: March 16, 2016
Automobile accident

The suspect is accused of using medical marijuana and then slamming into Clardy’s squad car, killing him.

Clardy was a married father of six. His obituary read: “He was raised in Park City, Utah where he attended local schools and was a graduate of Park City, H.S. He served his Country as a member of the U.S. Army for two years and transferred to the U.S. Marine Corps serving 11 years as a Marine until being honorably discharged in Dec. of 2003. He began his distinguished career as a Massachusetts State Trooper at the Academy in 2004, graduating in 2005. He was currently stationed at the Charlton Barracks and prior to that was stationed in the Sturbridge and Brookfield Barracks. He was a member of the C.A.T. Team out of C-Troop. He was a proud member of the Mormon Church of Latter Day Saints. Thomas had many interests in his life but his family was his passion.”

Police Officer Ronald Tarentino, Jr.
Auburn Police Department, MA
Died: May 22, 2016
Gunfire

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The officer was shot, allegedly by a career criminal, in the back and five times during a traffic stop.

According to his obituary, “Ron was a patrolman for the Auburn Police Dept. for the past 2 years and previously served on the Leicester Police Dept. for 7 years. Born in Melrose and raised in Medford and Tewksbury, he graduated from Tewksbury Memorial High School in 1991 and was co-captain of the basketball team. He later attended Middlesex Community College.

He was a devoted husband, father, son, brother and beloved friend to all. Ron was living his lifelong dream of being a police officer and serving the people of his community. He was a member of the Mass. Police Association, the Auburn Elks and Mustangs of Mass. He was an avid outdoorsman who enjoyed archery, hunting and fishing.”

Michigan

Deputy Sheriff Michael Arthur Winter
Branch County Sheriff’s Office, MI
Died: May 31, 2016
Animal related

Winter died when his horse threw him off during a Memorial Day parade.

MLive reported: “Winter had been a deputy with the sheriff’s office and a member of the mounted patrol for five years. A truck driver who also sold tactical equipment, he was a family man who had two daughters.”

Security Supervisor Joseph P. Zangaro
Berrien County Sheriff’s Department, MI
Died: July 11, 2016
Gunfire

Zangaro was a retired police officer who was head of security at a local courthouse when an inmate was accused of going on a shooting rampage.

He was remembered as a dedicated law enforcement professional who was a father and grandfather who liked to take his grandchildren fishing.

Court Officer Ronald Eugene Kienzle
Berrien County Sheriff’s Department, MI
Died: July 11, 2016
Gunfire

Kienzle died in the same shooting rampage as Zangaro.

He was a motorcycling enthusiast. Kienzle was also a retired police officer; he’d worked for the Benton Charter Police Department in Benton Harbor, Michigan. Kienzle was a father, grandfather, and U.S. Army veteran. He was called “one of the good guys” by a waitress who knew him.

Sergeant Kenneth Steil
Detroit Police Department, MI
Died: September 17, 2016
Gunfire

The Detroit Free Press reported of Steil: “He’s remembered as a ‘superhero,’ a policeman who helped shootings decrease by more than 50% in Detroit’s most violent precinct. He was a 20-year veteran of the department and also a husband and father of two boys, ages 3 and 5.”

A suspect on a crime spree is accused of shooting Steil, who was called “Shark,” during a pursuit.

Police Officer Myron Jarrett
Detroit Police Department, MI
Died: October 28, 2016
Vehicular assault

A father of four, Jarrett was struck by a hit-and-run driver while conducting a traffic stop, Fox 2 Detroit reported.

“Good guy, good family and he really gave his all,” the police chief said, according to the TV station.

Sergeant Collin James Rose
Wayne State University Police Department, MI
Died: November 23, 2016
Gunfire

Rose, 29, was shot in the head during a police stop. He had called for back and said he was stopping a person on a bicycle, reported Fox 6 Milwaukee.

He was engaged to be married, close to finishing his master’s degree, a canine handler, and described as an “outstanding, proactive officer,” reported the TV station.

Mississippi

Special Agent Lee Tartt
Mississippi Department of Public Safety – Bureau of Narcotics, MS
Died: February 20, 2016
Gunfire

Tartt, a narcotics agent, was shot and killed in a standoff during a domestic violence situation, the Clarion-Ledger reported.

He was remembered for his “honesty, courage and loyalty,” the newspaper said.

Missouri

Deputy Sheriff Paul Clark
St. Francois County Sheriff’s Office, MO
Died: July 4, 2016
Vehicular assault

Clark died of complications from back injuries suffered the year before when he was struck by a stolen vehicle. He had 18 years in policing and was a husband, father and grandfather.

Police Officer Blake Curtis Snyder
St. Louis County Police Department, MO
Died: October 6, 2016
Gunfire

Snyder was shot and killed by a suspect who is accused of shooting Snyder at pointblank range when he arrived to a call at a house.

Snyder filled his Facebook page with pictures of his child in police regalia and posted a memorial picture of a slain Memphis officer that included a powerful and now even more poignant phrase: “I matter.” Snyder, 33, was a four-year veteran of the St. Louis County Police Department

Navajo Division of Public Safety

Senior Police Officer Leander Frank
Navajo Division of Public Safety, TR
Died: August 30, 2016
Automobile accident

Frank was involved in a head-on collision while responding to a call.

The community came together to help his family and remember his service.

New Jersey

Trooper Sean E. Cullen
New Jersey State Police, NJ
Died: March 8, 2016
Struck by vehicle

Cullen was struck by a vehicle on a highway as he checked out a car fire.

The trooper was the father of a 9-month-old boy and was described as a high school wrestling star and hard worker with a relentless focus on his goals, reported The Courier Post.

Trooper Frankie Lamar Williams
New Jersey State Police, NJ
Died: December 5, 2016
Automobile accident

Williams – who was struck by a car that crossed a median – left behind a wife and was described as an outgoing, pleasant man who brought life to everything, reported The Daily Journal.

New Mexico

Police Officer Jose Ismael Chavez
Hatch Police Department, NM
Died: August 12, 2016
Gunfire

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Chavez was shot after he pulled over a man wanted for a murder charge in another state, police say.

Chavez became a police officer three years after becoming an American citizen and was remembered as a hero who loved animals and earned the respect of the community, reported KOAT-TV.

Police Officer Clint Corvinus
Alamogordo Police Department, NM
Died: September 2, 2016
Gunfire

A suspect with odd facial tattoos and open warrants is accused of shooting Corvinus in a chase.

Corvinus was a four-year police veteran with a girlfriend and young daughter.

Deputy Sheriff Ryan Thomas
Valencia County Sheriff’s Office, NM
Died: December 6, 2016
Automobile accident

Thomas lost control of his vehicle while responding to a burglary call.

“Officers described Thomas as being humorous, fun and devoted,” KOAT-TV reported.

New York

Sergeant Kerry Winters
Ulster County Sheriff’s Office, NY
Died: September 22, 2016
Drowned

The Daily Freeman reported: “Winters, 51, was a member of the sheriff’s dive team who died Sept. 22 after being found unconscious during an in-water training exercise.”

The newspaper said Winters was married with two children and worked as a correctional officer.

Investigator Paul R. Stuewer
New York State Police, NY
Died: October 5, 2016
9/11 related illness

Stuewer’s obituary says, “Investigator Stuewer passed away from an illness stemming from his assignment at the World Trade Center site, following the terrorist attack on September 11, 2001. Following the events of that day, Investigator Stuewer was assigned to New York City to aid in the search and recovery efforts.

Paul loved being a Trooper, and was active in many extra assignments with the NYSP, including motorcycle detail, Camaro operator, the Commercial Vehicle Enforcement Unit, and served as one of the models for the original State Trooper statue, “The Grey Rider,” in Albany, NY.”

Stuewer, 51, was survived by his wife and children. He died of cancer.

Trooper Timothy P. Pratt
New York State Police, NY
Died: October 26, 2016
Struck by vehicle

A man was later accused of stealing Pratt’s identity.

Pratt was killed when he was struck by a car while trying to help a lost trucker. He was remembered as a “hero or heroes” who was dedicated to helping others and who left behind a wife and children, reported WNYT-TV.

Sergeant Paul Tuozzolo
New York City Police Department, NY
Died: November 4, 2016
Gunfire

Tuozzolo took a bullet for another officer, The New York Daily News reported.

Remembered as an exemplary cop and a father, Tuozzolo had approached an ex-con who was in a car.

North Carolina

K9 Officer Timothy James Brackeen
Shelby Police Department, NC
Died: September 12, 2016
Gunfire

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Brackeen was shot while trying to serve a warrant.

He had a wife and little girl and was remembered as a hero who was always smiling.

Deputy Sheriff John Thomas Isenhour
Forsyth County Sheriff’s Office, NC
Died: September 28, 2016
Struck by vehicle

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A Marine Corps veteran, Isenhour was directing traffic when he was struck by a car driven by a 92-year-old woman.

According to his obituary, Isenhour, “attended high school at Riverside Military Academy in Gainesville, Ga. John excelled in academics and sports and graduated with honors in May of 1997 as Company Commander of Delta Company. He was awarded the Top Senior Wrestling Award, the Superior Cadet Award in Military 4 and a medal from the Daughters of the American Revolution. John enlisted in the U.S. Marine Corps after completing training at Paris Island, S.C., with Platoon 3091 I Company, November of 1997. As a Private First Class, John was an Emabassy Guard in India and stationed at Okinawa Island in Japan before doing Communications for the Marines during four tours of Kuwait and Iraq. He was promoted to Gunny Sergeant before retiring in August of 2014 after 17 years of faithful and dedicated service to our country. John was stationed at both Camp Pendleton, Calif. and Camp Lejeune. Immediately after the Marines, John wanted to be in law enforcement near his family’s hometowns in Rowan County. For the past year he was employed at the Forsyth County Sheriff’s Department as a Deputy Sheriff and lived in Cooleemee. John was a gentle giant who never stopped learning during his short lifetime.”

North Dakota

Police Officer Jason Moszer
Fargo Police Department, ND
Died: February 11, 2016
Gunfire

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Moszer died in a standoff with a suspect accused of firing at police officers who had responded to a domestic violence call.

According to the Officer Down Memorial Page, “Officer Moszer was a member of the Minnesota National Guard and had served with the Fargo Police Department for six years. He is survived by his wife and two children.”

Ohio

Police Officer Thomas W. Cottrell, Jr.
Danville Police Department, OH
Died: January 17, 2016
Gunfire

A man is accused of telling his ex-girlfriend that he wanted to kill a police officer before Cottrell was found shot to death behind a municipal building, with his gun and cruiser missing.
Cottrell’s obituary says, “He was a 2000 graduate of Newark High School and received his degree in Criminal Justice from COTC in 2002. After graduation Tommy began his career in law enforcement.” He was survived by his life partner and children.

Police Officer Steven Michael Smith
Columbus Division of Police, OH
Died: April 12, 2016
Gunfire

Smith, 54, was killed in a SWAT standoff.

He was remembered as “a true hero, a true guardian and protector.”

Police Officer Sean Richard Johnson
Hilliard Division of Police, OH
Died: May 19, 2016
Motorcycle accident

Johnson died when he lost control of his motorcycle during a training run, reported The Columbus Dispatch.

He was remembered as a gentle giant, a father of two, a former Air Force man, and a person with the heart of a teddy bear, the newspaper reported.

Trooper Kenneth V. Velez
Ohio State Highway Patrol, OH
Died: September 15, 2016
Struck by vehicle

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“Velez was remembered Thursday as a hero, an officer devoted to public service who wouldn’t quit,” Cleveland.com reported.

The newspaper said he was killed by another vehicle as he conducted a traffic stop. He left behind a family that included three children.

Police Officer Aaron J. Christian
Chesapeake Police Department, OH
Died: October 18, 2016
Automobile accident

Christian was killed in a car crash while on duty. He was remembered as a man for whom being a police officer was a dream and was described as kind and compassionate.

Oklahoma

Sergeant Jason Goodding
Seaside Police Department, OR
Died February 5, 2016
Gunfire

A wanted felon is accused of killing Goodding as the officer tried to arrest him outside a restaurant.

Goodding was married with two daughters. His obituary says, “After graduating from Portland State University, Jason began his lifelong path as a mentor and leader in his community. He was the head basketball coach at Southridge High School in Beaverton, assistant coach at Tigard High School and Sherwood Middle School, and coached at schools throughout Seaside.

As a police officer, he was a favorite among his peers and the citizens of Seaside. He didn’t just respond to a burglary call, he stayed until the homeowner felt safe. He walked up to kids on the street with his wide, warm smile and listened to what they had to say. He was in life, as he was as an officer: honest, fair and kind.”

Pennsylvania

Trooper Landon Weaver
Pennsylvania State police
Died: December 30, 2016
Gunfire

Weaver was shot and killed when he responded to a domestic complaint. After a manhunt, the suspect was shot and killed by police.

PennLive reported that the slain trooper “was a graduate of Central High School in Martinsburg, Blair County. Also in June, he married his high school sweetheart, Macy Gottshall.” The news site reported that Weaver “was a dean’s list student at Indiana University of Pennsylvania, where he majored in criminal justice.”

Correctional Officer Kristopher D. Moules
Luzerne County Correctional Facility, PA
Died: July 18, 2016
Assault

Moules, 25, and an inmate fell to their deaths down an elevator shaft during a struggle.

His obituary reads, “He honorably worked at the Luzerne County Correctional Facility as a corrections officer from September 2015 until his passing. He was a baseball coach at Lackawanna College, Scranton, and for the MVP Sports Academy, Exeter, worked as a valet at Mohegan Sun casino and was also a proud employee of the Wyoming Valley Country Club.

Kris was a varsity baseball, soccer and ice hockey player for Wyoming Valley West High School, as well as playing baseball for Lackawanna College, where he co-captained their 2012 World Series team. He then proceeded to continue his education at Youngstown State University, where he played baseball for two years.

He had many passions in life, which included sports, the outdoors and spending time with his friends.”

Corrections Officer David M. Weaver
Pennsylvania Department of Corrections, PA
Died: September 26, 2016
Fall


Fox 29 described Weaver as “a husband, a dad, a Navy veteran, a good man.”

He died after falling in a prison, striking his head on concrete, the TV station said.

Police Officer Scott Leslie Bashioum
Canonsburg Borough Police Department, PA
Died: November 10, 2016
Gunfire

Bashioum was shot while responding to a domestic violence call. The suspect is accused of also shooting the suspect’s pregnant wife.

Bashioum was a married father of four whose wife said his job “was to run to danger, never from it.”

Puerto Rico

Lieutenant Waldemar Rivera-Santiago
Puerto Rico Police Department, PR
Died: September 5, 2016
Motorcycle accident

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He was killed when he struck the back of a milk truck.

Rivera-Santiago was survived by his wife and six children and had been a police officer for 30 years.

Agent Edwin Pabón-Robles
Puerto Rico Police Department, PR
Died: September 23, 2016
Automobile accident

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The officer, 43, died in a car crash while responding to an emergency call.

He had been an officer for five years and left behind a wife and two children.

Agent Victor Rosado-Rosa
Puerto Rico Police Department, PR
Died: October 5, 2016
Motorcycle accident

Another vehicle struck Rosado-Rosa’s motorcycle after a pursuit and traffic stop.

He had been a police officer for 23 years and was survived by his wife and two sons, The Officer Down Memorial Page reported.

Sergeant Luis A. Meléndez-Maldonado
Puerto Rico Police Department, PR
Died: October 12, 2016
Gunfire

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Melendez-Maldonado was shot and killed during a narcotics investigation.

He was a police officer for 30 years.

South Carolina

Police Officer III Allen Lee Jacobs
Greenville Police Department, SC
Died: March 18, 2016
Gunfire

Jacobs was shot and killed as he approached a suspect known to be a gang member.

His wife was pregnant with their third child. According to his obituary, “He was a Sergeant in the 82nd Airborne Division of the U.S. Army at Fort Bragg, NC, a Jump Master, and a decorated Iraq War veteran. He joined the City of Greenville Police Department in 2011, where he was on the SWAT and Community Response teams. He was also involved in many Community Coordination and Education programs, such as Cops on the Court and the Gang Resistance Education and Training (GREAT) summer program. He served the schools within the City of Greenville by instructing and mentoring young people, as well as serving as a zone patrol officer in his off-duty hours. He received a Purple Heart Award in 2015 for his heroic service.”

Tennessee

Sergeant Verdell Smith, Sr
Memphis Police Department, TN
Died: June 4, 2016
Vehicular assault

Smith was struck and killed by a suspect in a triple murder who was allegedly fleeing.

He had tried to save the lives of others who were in the way of the car, reported NBC, and “had been with the Memphis police for 18 years. He left a fiancée, children and his father.” He was a Navy veteran remembered as a person deeply devoted to his community.

Police Officer Zachary Tyler Larnerd
Gainesboro Police Department, TN
Died: June 15, 2016
Automobile accident

Larnerd died from complications of an earlier car crash on duty.

His father was the chief of police. He was remembered as leaving a positive impression on all he worked with as well as the public.


Deputy Sheriff Martin Tase Sturgill, II
Humphreys County Sheriff’s Office, TN
Died June 30, 2016
Heart attack

“Deputy Sheriff Martin Sturgill died of a heart attack while developing a new physical fitness test for the department’s Emergency Response Team,” says the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund.

Law Enforcement Today reported: “Deputy Sturgill served the Humphreys County Sheriff Department in a variety of capacities during his twelve-year tenure. He currently was the Jail Administrator and the Department’s Training Officer. He is survived by his wife and four children.”

Special Agent De’Greaun Frazier
Tennessee Bureau of Investigation, TN
Died: August 9, 2016
Gunfire

Frazier was shot and killed during an undercover drug operation.

The Jackson Sun reported that he was described as “hardworking, enthusiastic and dedicated to making Tennessee a better place to live.”

Police Officer Kenneth Ray Moats
Maryville Police Department, TN
Died: August 25, 2016
Gunfire

Kenneth Moats

Kenneth Moats.

Moats was shot and killed responding to a domestic violence call.

According to Moats’ obituary, “Kenny was a 2002 graduate of Heritage High School and graduated from Walters State Police Academy in December 2005. Officer Moats has been with the City of Maryville Police Department since February 2007. In June of 2010, Kenny was assigned to traffic as a motor officer. He was recognized as a Readers’ Choice Police Officer by the readers of The Daily Times in 2011. Since January 2016, Officer Moats has served as President of the Fraternal Order of Police – Bud Allison Memorial Lodge #9. In May of 2016, he was assigned to the Fifth Judicial Task Force as a drug enforcement agent. Officer Moats was a fine outstanding officer and his career with the City of Maryville Police Department was stellar.”

Texas

Police Officer David Stefan Hofer
Euless Police Department, TX
Died: March 1, 2016
Gunfire

A gunman is accused of shooting Hofer in midsentence as Hofer asked him to show his hands.

Hofer was the son of a prominent Swiss mathematician who wanted to help improve the world and moved with his girlfriend to small town Texas from New York, The New York Times reported.

Patrolman David Ortiz
El Paso Police Department, TX
Died: March 14, 2016
Motorcycle accident

The suspect, a gang member, is accused of boasting about striking and killing Ortiz.

Ortiz was remembered as a dedicated family man who left a wife and two children and was described as a “noble man,” according to KFOX-TV.

Trooper Jeffrey Nichols
Texas Department of Public Safety – Texas Highway Patrol, TX
Died: March 26, 2016
Automobile accident

Nichols lost control of his squad car and crashed into a tree.

“DPS and the State of Texas have lost one of our finest in the line of duty,” said DPS Director Steven McCraw in a news release. “Every day Trooper Nichols honored his pledge to proudly protect the people of Texas, and his service and sacrifice will always be cherished and remembered. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family and loved ones during this extremely difficult time.”

Police Officer Endy Nddiobong Ekpanya
Pearland Police Department, TX
Died: June 12, 2016
Vehicular assault

Ekpanya was called courageous, confident and a loving married father.

An accused drunk driver collided into his squad car.

Sergeant Stacey Allen Baumgartner
Patton Village Police Department, TX
Died: June 19, 2016
Vehicle pursuit

Baumgartner left behind a wife and two children. He was killed during a police chase.

He was described as a dedicated police officer who always liked to laugh.

Police Officer Calvin “Mark” McCullers
Southern Methodist University Police Department, TX
EOW: Tuesday, July 5, 2016
Cause of Death: Drowned

McCullers’ obituary says he was “a 46-year-old Southern Methodist University police officer” who passed away July 5 “after being swept into floodwaters while working a private security job.”

He was a former Marine and military police officer who then “took a personal protection job for Perot Systems in Dallas where he led the way in the implementation of new security programs” before becoming a university police officer. “He met his wife, Tiffany, in 2009 and the two married on Feb. 2, 2012, bringing their six children together into what Mark called their ‘modern Brady Bunch’ family,” the obituary said.

Police Officer Michael Leslie Krol
Dallas Police Department, TX
Died: Thursday, July 7, 2016
Gunfire

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Krol was killed in a targeted ambush by a suspect seeking to shoot Dallas police officers.

His obituary reads, “He received his Criminal Justice Degree from Wayne County Community College in Detroit, Michigan, and worked at the Wayne County Jail from 2002 to 2007. To realize his dream of becoming a police officer, Mike left his family and moved to Dallas in 2007 to attend the Police Academy. While this may seem a trivial detail of his life, it serves as an example of the decisions that Mike made to achieve his goal of serving others. We are so proud of our “Gentle Giant” and all that he stood for. Upon graduation, Mike went to work for the Dallas Police Department, where he served for nine years. Mike loved Dallas and the community he served.”

Sergeant Michael Joseph Smith
Dallas Police Department, TX
Died: July 7, 2016
Gunfire

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Michael Joseph Smith was also killed in the Dallas ambush.

Sergeant Smith “was a U.S. Army veteran and had served with the Dallas Police Department for 27 years. He is survived by his wife and two daughters.”

Police Officer Patricio E. Zamarripa
Dallas Police Department, TX
Died: July 7, 2016
Gunfire

Officer Zamarripa was also murdered in the Dallas ambush.

He had survived three tours of Iraq and left behind his longtime partner and their young child.

Police Officer Brent Alan Thompson
Dallas Area Rapid Transit Police Department, TX
Died: July 7, 2016
Gunfire

Also killed in the Dallas ambush was Brent Alan Thompson.

He was a newlywed of two weeks, a father, a grandfather, and an officer with the Dallas Area Rapid Transit system.

Thompson, 43, had served in dangerous places before: He was an international police trainer who mentored Iraqi and Afghan police in the concepts of “democratic policing,” training Afghan officers how to avoid an ambush, according to a 2006 New York Times article quoting him and his own LinkedIn page. He’d also previously trained American police officers in active shooters.

Senior Corporal Lorne Bradley Ahrens
Dallas Police Department, TX
Died: July 8, 2016
Gunfire

Ahrens was also killed in the Dallas ambush.

He was a former football player who was married with two children.

Police Officer Marco Antonio Zarate
Bellaire Police Department, TX
Died: July 12, 2016
Vehicle pursuit

Zarate was described as “always trying to lend a helping hand and say hey good morning. He’d always go that extra step. He was genuinely a wonderful man.”

He died in a chase of shoplifting suspects, said Click2Houston.

Corrections Officer Mari Johnson
Texas Department of Criminal Justice, TX
Died: July 16, 2016
Assault

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An inmate who worked in a kitchen area was accused of attacking Johnson and killing her in a storage room.

She was a mother of four and a grandmother described as having a sense of purpose to serve the community.

Police Officer Justin Scherlen
Amarillo Police Department, TX
Died: August 4, 2016
Automobile accident

A married father of four, Scherlen had been severely injured in a 2015 traffic crash and died on a family vacation.

Senior Police Officer Amir Abdul-Khaliq
Austin Police Department, TX
Died: September 4, 2016
Motorcycle accident

He died of injuries sustained in a funeral procession he was leading, reported Fox 7 Austin.

He was a 17-year veteran described as having a heart of gold.

Deputy Sheriff Kenneth Hubert Maltby
Eastland County Sheriff’s Office, TX
Died: September 7, 2016
Automobile accident

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Maltby was remembered as a “legend, standup man, good cop.”

He died in a car crash.

Corporal Robert Eugene Ransom
Gregg County Sheriff’s Office, TX
Died: September 30, 2016
Heart attack

Ransom suffered a heart attack while responding to another inmate’s medical emergency.

According to Ransom’s obituary: “After trying to have an interest in other fields, he found his love, serving others as a police officer. He joined the Porter County Sheriff’s Department in Indiana retiring after more than twenty-five years of service. Areas of service included Patrolman, Chief Warrant Officer, S.W.A.T. member, Fire Arms and Underwater Recovery Instructor. He received numerous awards for his marksmanship abilities, including the Indiana Governor’s Top 20 List for top sharpshooter. He received the nickname ‘Beef’ while helping to apprehend a suspect when officers needed assistance and one said ‘where’s the beef?,’ calling for his help. He is still fondly remembered by this. Rob was destined to live in Texas. His love for Texas began when he attended the Cotton Bowl as part of the Porter County Mounted Posse. He moved to Texas in 2005 after retiring from Porter County, and joined the Gregg County Sheriff’s Department serving as a Jailer.

He spent his life loving his family, and enjoyed anything to do with firearms, water sports, traveling, firearms, animals, building, anything to do with tending the farm, firearms, serving others, and firearms! He loved to laugh, and blessed everyone that came in to contact with him. Robert will be sorely missed by all that knew and loved him.”


Assistant Commander Kenneth Joseph Starrs
South Texas Specialized Crimes and Narcotics Task Force, TX
Died: November 16, 2016
Struck by train

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Starrs was struck by a train while driving through a railroad crossing.

Starrs’ obituary said: “Ken married his wife, Karen of 28 years on August 22, 1988. He was previously retired from the Corpus Christi Police Department, Port of Corpus Christi, and now serving as FOP Texas State President. Ken was employed by Kleberg County as Asst. Commander for South Texas Specialized Crimes and Narcotic Task Force. Ken enjoyed participation in Fraternal Order of Police, Shop with a Cop, golf, red wine and great sunsets. He will always be remembered for his love of laughter, sense of adventure, service in the community, zest for life, love for family and friends. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother and special uncle.”

Detective Benjamin Edward Marconi
San Antonio Police Department, TX
Died: November 20, 2016
Gunfire

Police say the officer was ambushed and shot dead during a traffic stop near the department’s headquarters. They say the gunman pulled up on Detective Benjamin Marconi’s patrol car after the 50-year-old officer stopped another vehicle.

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A 20-year veteran, Marconi was a father who was the son of a police detective. He was also a grandfather. After the shooting in Dallas, Marconi tweeted a photo of a T-shirt with a message saying the San Antonio Police Department stands with the Dallas officers. Proceeds from sales of the shirt went to the fallen officers’ families.

Utah

Police Officer Douglas Scott Barney, II
Unified Police Department of Greater Salt Lake, UT
Died: January 17, 2016
Gunfire

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Barney was shot after responding to a report of a traffic crash.

Barney was a cancer survivor, a father of three, and an 18-year veteran.

Police Officer Cody Brotherson
West Valley City Police Department, UT
Died: November 6, 2016
Vehicular assault

Brotherson was struck by a vehicle after laying down spike strips to stop a car in a pursuit.

Brotherson’s obituary says: “Cody graduated from Granger High School in 2009. He attended the University of Utah studying business, then went to the SLCC POST program which helped him pave the way to achieving his lifelong goal of becoming a police officer. That dream was realized when Cody joined the West Valley City Police Force in December of 2013.

Cody loved his job and helping to make the world a better safer place for all. Cody 100% loved and was loyal to all those fortunate enough to be called family or friend. This took on a new meaning and went to a completely different level with his family and his brothers and sisters in blue.” He was survived by a woman described as his soulmate.

Trooper Eric Dale Ellsworth
Utah Highway Patrol, UT
Died: November 22, 2016
Struck by vehicle

A teenager girl allegedly struck Ellsworth as he assisted at the scene of a downed powerline.

The Salt Lake Tribute reported that Ellsworth was a seven-year police veteran who “followed in his father’s footsteps and is a second-generation trooper” and who left behind a wife and three sons. He was “an Eagle Scout and served a mission for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in the Canada Winnipeg mission,” reported the newspaper.

Virginia

Corporal Harvey Snook, III
Arlington County Police Department, VA
Died: January 14, 2016
9/11 related illness

Officer Snook had responded to the attack on the Pentagon on September 11, 2001, and helped with recovery efforts. He has now died of cancer.

Go Heroes wrote: “Harvey was a proud Veteran of the United States Army. He was a Corporal in the Arlington County Police Department for nearly 27 years serving as a Patrolman and member of the K9 Unit earning multiple commendations including: The Arlington County Meritorious Action Award, The Police Service Award, and The Sons of the American Revolution Law Enforcement Commendation Medal.”

Officer Ashley Marie Guindon
Prince William County Police Department, VA
Died: February 27, 2016
Gunfire

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Guindon was shot while responding to a domestic call on her first day on the street, reported The Washington Post.

She was a veteran of the Marine Corps and a graduate of ­Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University in Daytona Beach, Fla., the Post reported.

Trooper Chad Phillip Dermyer
Virginia State Police, VA
Died: March 31, 2016
Gunfire

A married father of two, Dermyer “graduated from the Virginia State Police Academy in 2014. Prior to that time he served as a Policeman for the City of Newport News and the Jackson Michigan Police Department. He had served with the U S Marines as a Machine Gunner. He was a loving and devoted husband, father, son and brother who has left us too soon, but his memory will live forever in our hearts,” his obituary said.

Dermyer was killed when a man opened fire at a Greyhound Bus Station.

Washington

Police Officer Reginald Jacob “Jake” Gutierrez
Tacoma Police Department, WA
Died: November 30, 2016
Gunfire

The officer, who was shot while responding to a domestic situation, had given his life to save his partner and the suspect’s wife.

The Olympian reported that the officer was remembered “for his sense of humor, integrity and ability to defuse volatile conflicts

West Virginia

First Sergeant Joseph G. Portaro
West Virginia State Police, WV
Died: March 14, 2016
Heart attack

joseph portaro

Joseph Portaro. (police photo)

A police press release said: “He was a 17 year veteran of the West Virginia State Police and assigned to the West Virginia State Police Academy as the Deputy Director of Training…First Sergeant Portaro suffered a medical emergency while participating in a physical fitness training routine near the grounds of the West Virginia State Police Academy. He was transported to Thomas Memorial Hospital in South Charleston where he was pronounced dead.

First Sergeant Portaro, a 1987 graduate of West Virginia University, enlisted in the West Virginia State Police on October 26, 1998. Upon his graduation from the Academy, he was assigned to the Kingwood Detachment. In 2008, he was assigned as a Staff Officer to the West Virginia State Police Academy.”

Wisconsin

Public Safety Officer Michael Joshua Ventura
Town of Salem Department of Public Safety, WI
Died: July 8, 2016
Automobile accident

He was remembered as “the most selfless human being,” reported Fox 6 Milwaukee.

He died when his squad left the road and crashed, the TV station said.

Deputy Sheriff Dan Glaze
Rusk County Sheriff’s Office, WI
Died: October 29, 2016
Gunfire

deputy dan glaze, dan glaze, dan glaze rusk county, dan glaze doug doug nitek

Deputy Dan Glaze. (Facebook)

Glaze was shot and killed as he responded to a report of a suspicious vehicle. He was remembered as a “superb deputy” and a go-getter.

Jessica McBride is a news, sports, and entertainment reporter covering breaking news, politics sports, entertainment, and crime for Heavy. She is a former reporter for the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel and Waukesha Freeman newspapers in Wisconsin and is a senior journalism instructor at the University of Wisconsin Milwaukee. More about Jessica McBride

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