Protecting the Palm Beaches – a tribute to those who serve and sacrifice
Bottom Line: This weekly feature is designed to recognize those who've paid the ultimate price to serve their communities and to serve as a reminder of what our police risk to keep us safe.
This is the unfortunate news you need to know:
- 148 police officers died in the line of duty in 2018 – 16% higher year over year & the top cause of death was murder for the first time on record
- 35 police officers have now died while serving in 2019
- We’ve lost another three heroes over the previous update
In Washington, Deputy Justin Richard DeRosier was murdered while conducting an investigation of a disabled motor home. He’s survived by a wife and infant. In Maryland, Officer Kyle Olinger died from injuries sustained when he was shot while attempting to disarm a suspect. He’s survived by a wife and two children. In Minnesota,Officer Eugene Wynn Jr. drowned while patrolling Cross Lake, he’s survived by a wife and two children.
Please remember the families of our fallen heroes as well. In addition to already losing 35 officers this year, there are 23 widows and 38 children who’ve lost a parent.
The average age of the fallen 40. The average tour of duty, 12 years.
Remember to back the badge and spread the word. Media often aren't there for our law enforcement, but we can be. Let our police, and their families, know we support them every chance you get. They need it, now more than ever, just as we need them more than ever.