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.
- 132 line of duty deaths in 2019
- Murder was the top cause of death for the second consecutive year
- 63 LOD’s in 2020, including 3 in Florida
We lost seven heroes this week as the impact of COVID-19 continues to pose an additional threat to law enforcement. In Louisiana, Warden Sandy McCain died of COVID-19 he contracted on duty. He’s survived by a wife and two children. In New Jersey, Patrolman Gary Walker died of COVID-19 he contracted on duty. He’s survived by a wife and a child. In Puerto Rico, Agent Miguel Ortiz died of COVID-19 he contracted on duty.In Texas, Deputy Timothy De La Fuente died of COVID-19 he contracted on duty. Here’s survived by his wife. Also, in Texas, Officer Jason Knox (pictured) died in a helicopter crash while in pursuit of a suspect. He’s survived by a wife and two children. In Kansas, Officer Michael Mosher was murdered while in pursuit of a hit & run suspect. He’s survived by a wife and child. In Texas, Sergeant Lionel Martinez died of a heart attack while responding to a shooting.
As we reflect on those we’ve lost, please remember the families of our fallen as well. In addition to losing 63 law enforcement professionals in the line of duty this year, there are 28 widows and 70 children who’ve lost a parent.
- The average age of the fallen, 43. The average tour of duty, 14 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.