In Memoriam 2020

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Officer
Troy Allen Adkins
US Department of Homeland Security
Customs & Border Protection
El Paso, Texas

End of Watch: Thursday, December 31, 2020

Officer Troy Adkins died from complications as the result of contracting COVID-19 while on duty at the Port of El Paso in El Paso, Texas.

Officer Adkins was a U.S. Navy veteran and had served with the United States Customs and Border Protection – Office of Field Operations for 13 years. He is survived by his wife, son, three stepchildren, and two grandchildren.
In early 2020, thousands of law enforcement officers and other first responders throughout the country contracted COVID-19 during the worldwide pandemic due to requirements of their job. Many of these first responders died as a result of COVID-19.

Corrections Officer V
Joe Landin
Texas Department of Criminal Justice
Lubbock, Texas

End of Watch: Monday, December 28, 2020

Corrections Officer V Joe Landin died from complications as the result of contracting COVID-19 during an outbreak among employees and inmates at the Montford Unit in Lubbock, Texas.

Officer Landin had served with the Texas Department of Criminal Justice for 25 years. He is survived by his two sons, two daughters, and seven grandchildren.
In early 2020, thousands of law enforcement officers and other first responders throughout the country contracted COVID-19 during the worldwide pandemic due to requirements of their job. Many of these first responders died as a result of COVID-19

Corrections Officer V
Phillip Holbert
Texas Department of Criminal Justice
Plainview, Texas

End of Watch: Sunday, December 27, 2020

Corrections Officer V Phillip Holbert died from complications as the result of contracting COVID-19 during an outbreak among employees and inmates at the Formby State Jail in Plainview.

Officer Holbert had served with the Texas Department of Criminal Justice for 14 years. He is survived by his wife, three daughters, three grandchildren, and sister. His sister also served with the Texas Department of Criminal Justice.
In early 2020, thousands of law enforcement officers and other first responders throughout the country contracted COVID-19 during the worldwide pandemic due to requirements of their job. Many of these first responders died as a result of COVID-19.

Security Control Specialist
Jerry William Jones
Tarrant County Sheriff’s Office, Texas

End of Watch: Wednesday, December 23, 2020

Security Control Specialist Jerry Jones died from complications as the result of contracting COVID-19 during a confirmed exposure during an outbreak among employees and inmates at the Tarrant County Jail.

Specialist Jones had served with the Tarrant County Sheriff’s Office for 18 years. He is survived by his wife, son, daughter, granddaughter, mother, and sister.
In early 2020, thousands of law enforcement officers and other first responders throughout the country contracted COVID-19 during the worldwide pandemic due to requirements of their job. Many of these first responders died as a result of COVID-19.

Sergeant
David Schmidt
Seagoville Police Department, Texas

End of Watch: Wednesday, December 23, 2020

Sergeant David Schmidt died from complications as the result of contracting COVID-19 during a presumed exposure while on duty at the Seagoville Police Department.

Sergeant Schmidt had served with the Seagoville Police Department for 15 years. He is survived by his wife, son, and three brothers.

In early 2020, thousands of law enforcement officers and other first responders throughout the country contracted COVID-19 during the worldwide pandemic due to requirements of their job. Many of these first responders died as a result of COVID-19.

Police Officer
Christopher Lynn Elder
Milford PD, Texas

End of Watch: Sunday, December 20, 2020

Police Officer Christopher Elder died of complications as the result of contracting COVID-19 in a confirmed exposure while on duty at the Milford Police Department.

Officer Elder had served with the Milford Police Department for eight years. He is survived by his three children and sister.
In early 2020, thousands of law enforcement officers and other first responders throughout the country contracted COVID-19 during the worldwide pandemic due to requirements of their job. Many of these first responders died as a result of COVID-19.

Officer
Andrew Raymond Bouchard
United States Department of Homeland Security
Customs & Border Protection
Houston, Texas

End of Watch: Saturday, December 19, 2020

Officer Andy Bouchard died from complications as the result of contracting COVID-19 while on duty at the Houston Seaport.

Officer Bouchard was a U.S. Army veteran of the Persian Gulf War and had served with the U.S. Customs and Border Protection – Office of Field Operations for 13 years. He is survived by his wife and son.

Lieutenant
Craig L. King
Tarrant County Sheriff’s Office, Texas

End of Watch: Saturday, December 19, 2020

Lieutenant Craig King died from complications as the result of contracting COVID-19 during a confirmed exposure during an outbreak among employees and inmates at the Tarrant County Jail.

Lieutenant King had served with the Tarrant County Sheriff’s Office for 17 years. He is survived by his four children.
In early 2020, thousands of law enforcement officers and other first responders throughout the country contracted COVID-19 during the worldwide pandemic due to requirements of their job. Many of these first responders died as a result of COVID-19.

Corrections Officer IV
Harold Smith
Texas Department of Criminal Justice
Pampa, Texas

End of Watch: Tuesday, December 15, 2020

Corrections Officer IV Harold Smith died from complications as the result of contracting COVID-19 during an outbreak among employees and inmates at the Jordan Unit in Pampa, Texas.

Officer Smith had served with the Texas Department of Criminal Justice for 5-1/2 years.

Corrections Officer V
Timothy Beggs
Texas Department of Criminal Justice
Galveston, Texas

End of Watch: Wednesday, December 9, 2020

Corrections Officer V Timothy Beggs died from complications as the result of contracting COVID-19 during an outbreak among employees and inmates at Hospital Galveston in Galveston, Texas.

Officer Beggs was a U.S. Army veteran and had served with the Texas Department of Criminal Justice for 13 years. He is survived by his wife, four children, and two grandchildren.

Sergeant
Lyle Gene Denny
Panhandle Police Department, Texas

End of Watch: Monday, December 7, 2020

Sergeant Lyle Denny died from complications as the result of contracting COVID-19 in a confirmed exposure while on duty.

Sergeant Denny had served in law enforcement for 42 years and was the School Resource Officer for Panhandle High School. He is survived by his wife, daughter, two granddaughters, brother, and sister.
In early 2020, thousands of law enforcement officers and other first responders throughout the country contracted COVID-19 during the worldwide pandemic due to requirements of their job. Many of these first responders died as a result of COVID-19.

Police Officer
Leslie L. Graves, II
Perryton Police Department, Texas

End of Watch: Thursday, December 3, 2020

Police Officer Les Graves died from complications as the result of contracting COVID-19 during a presumed exposure while on duty.

Officer Graves had served with the Perryton Police Department for two years. He is survived by his wife, six children, and eight siblings.
In early 2020, thousands of law enforcement officers and other first responders throughout the country contracted COVID-19 during the worldwide pandemic due to requirements of their job. Many of these first responders died as a result of COVID-19.

Officer
Jose A. Santana
US Department of Security
Customs and Border Protection
Laredo, Texas

End of Watch: Wednesday, December 2, 2020

Officer Jose Santana died from complications after contracting COVID-19 while on duty at the Laredo Port of Entry in Laredo, Texas.

Officer Santana had served with the Customs and Border Protection – Office of Field Operations for 12 years and had previously served with the Laredo Police Department for six years. He is survived by his wife, daughter, parents, and two siblings.
In early 2020, thousands of law enforcement officers and other first responders throughout the country contracted COVID-19 during the worldwide pandemic due to requirements of their job. Many of these first responders died as a result of COVID-19.

Officer
Richard Rios
US Department of Homeland Security
Customs and Border Protection
El Paso, Texas

End of Watch: Wednesday, December 2, 2020

Officer Richard Rios died from complications as the result of contracting COVID-19 in the line of duty while assigned to the Ysleta Port of Entry in El Paso, Texas.

Officer Rios had served with the Customs and Border Protection – Office of Field Operations for 17 years. He is survived by his wife, two daughters, and mother.

Chief Deputy Constable
M. Wayne Rhodes
Denton County Constable’s Office, Texas

End of Watch: Tuesday, December 1, 2020

Chief Deputy Constable Wayne Rhodes died as the result of complications after contracting COVID-19 while on duty.

Chief Deputy Rhodes had served with the Denton County Constable’s Office – Precinct 2 for 25 years. He is survived by his wife, six children, and 16 grandchildren.
In early 2020, thousands of law enforcement officers and other first responders throughout the country contracted COVID-19 during the worldwide pandemic due to requirements of their job. Many of these first responders died as a result of COVID-19.

Senior Police Officer
Earnest Leal, Jr.
Houston Police Department, Texas

End of Watch: Friday, November 27, 2020

Senior Police Officer Ernest Leal died as the result of complications after contracting COVID-19 while on duty.

Officer Leal had served with the Houston Police Department for 36 years and was assigned to the North Patrol Division. He is survived by his wife, four children, mother, and three siblings.

Air Interdiction Agent
Christopher Doyle Carney
US Department of Homeland Security
Customs and Border Protection
McAllen, Texas

End of Watch: Monday, November 16, 2020

Air Interdiction Agent Christopher Carney died as the result of complications after contracting COVID-19 while on duty in McAllen, Texas.

Air Interdiction Agent Carney was a U.S. Army veteran and recipient of the Distinguished Flying Cross. He had served with Customs and Border Protection – Air and Marine Operations for two years and was assigned to the McAllen Air and Marine Branch. He is survived by his daughter, mother, and four siblings.
In early 2020, thousands of law enforcement officers and other first responders throughout the country contracted COVID-19 during the worldwide pandemic due to requirements of their job. Many of these first responders died as a result of COVID-19.

Sergeant
Bronc Justin McCoy
Dallas Police Department, Texas

End of Watch: Monday, November 16, 2020

Sergeant Bronc McCoy died from complications as the result of contracting COVID-19 in a presumed exposure while on duty.

Sergeant McCoy was a U.S. Navy veteran. He had served with the Dallas Police Department and was assigned to the Southeast Patrol Division. He had previously served with the Smith County Sheriff’s Office. He is survived by his two children, mother, father, and two siblings.

Deputy Constable
Brad Andrew Briscoe
Brazoria County Constable Pct. #1, Texas

End of Watch: Sunday, November 15, 2020

Deputy Constable Brad Briscoe died as the result of complications after contracting COVID-19 while on duty.

Deputy Constable Briscoe had served with the Brazoria County Constable’s Office – Precinct 1 for six months and had previously served with the Angleton Police Department. He is survived by his wife, son, daughter, parents, and two siblings.
In early 2020, thousands of law enforcement officers and other first responders throughout the country contracted COVID-19 during the worldwide pandemic due to requirements of their job. Many of these first responders died as a result of COVID-19.

Correctional Officer
Rodrick Rodgers
Texas Department Criminal Justice
Lovelady, Texas

End of Watch: Wednesday, November 11, 2020

Corrections Officer Rodrick Rodgers died from complications as the result of contracting COVID-19 during an outbreak among employees and inmates at the Eastham Unit in Lovelady, Texas.

Officer Rodgers had served with the Texas Department of Criminal Justice for 10 years.
In early 2020, thousands of law enforcement officers and other first responders throughout the country contracted COVID-19 during the worldwide pandemic due to requirements of their job. Many of these first responders died as a result of COVID-19.

Sergeant
Sean Rios
Houston Police Department, Texas

End of Watch: Monday, November 9, 2020

Sergeant Sean Rios was shot and killed in the 7700 block of North Freeway at about 1:30 pm while en route to start his shift at George Bush Intercontinental Airport.

He encountered two vehicles and an armed man on the roadway and became engaged in a shootout with the subject. Sergeant Rios was fatally wounded in the shootout. The subjects in both vehicles fled the scene and remain at large.

Sergeant Rios had served with the Houston Police Department for 25 years and was assigned to the Airport Division. He is survived by four children, parents, brother, and two cousins who work also serve with the Houston Police Department

Officer
Domingo Jasso, III
United States Department of Homeland Security
Customs and Border Protection
Progresso, Texas

End of Watch: Thursday, November 5, 2020

Officer Domingo Jasso died as the result of complication after contracting COVID-19 while on duty at the Progreso/Donna Port of Entry in Progresso, Texas.

Officer Jasso had served with the United States Customs and Border Protection – Office of Field Operations for nine years. He is survived by his wife, three children, parents, and two sisters.
In early 2020, thousands of law enforcement officers and other first responders throughout the country contracted COVID-19 during the worldwide pandemic due to requirements of their job. Many of these first responders died as a result of COVID-19.

Deputy Sheriff
Johnny R. Tunches
Harris County Sheriff’s Office, Texas

End of Watch: Tuesday, November 3, 2020

Deputy Sheriff Johnny Tunches died as the result of complications after contracting COVID-19 while on duty.

He had served with the Harris County Sheriff’s Office for 29 years and was assigned to District 2. He is survived by his wife and three daughters.
In early 2020, thousands of law enforcement officers and other first responders throughout the country contracted COVID-19 during the worldwide pandemic due to requirements of their job. Many of these first responders died as a result of COVID-19.

Deputy Sheriff
Raul Gomez
Wharton County Sheriff’s Office, Texas

End of Watch: Monday, October 26, 2020

Deputy Sheriff Roy Gomez died of complications related to contracting COVID-19 during a presumed exposure while on duty.

Deputy Gomez had served with the Wharton County Sheriff’s Office for 12 years and was assigned to supervise the Inmate Work Squad. He is survived by his wife and two children.
In early 2020, thousands of law enforcement officers and other first responders throughout the country contracted COVID-19 during the worldwide pandemic due to requirements of their job. Many of these first responders died as a result of COVID-19

Police Officer
Alex Arango
Everman Police Department, Texas

End of Watch: Thursday, October 22, 2020

Police Officer Alex Arango died after contracting COVID-19 during a confirmed exposure when he responded to a domestic disturbance call in the 400 block of Andenwood Drive on September 28th, 2020.

Officer Arango had served with the Everman Police Department for 27 years. He is survived by his wife, son, two daughters, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and mother.

Sergeant
Harold Preston
Houston Police Department, Texas

End of Watch: Tuesday, October 20, 2020

Sergeant Harold Preston was shot and killed at about 9:30 am as he and other officers responded to a domestic disturbance call in an apartment complex in the 2600 block of Holly Hall Street.

Police were called to the scene by a woman who had been locked out of her apartment by her estranged husband and was attempting to retrieve belongings. Other officers had been to the apartment two additional times in the preceding days for domestic disturbance calls. Sergeant Preston and the other officer spoke to the woman for approximately an hour before her 14-year-old son managed to unlock the apartment door and encountered his father holding a gun.

The man then opened fire, striking Sergeant Preston numerous times in the head and upper body. The other officer and juvenile were also wounded. The man surrendered approximately one hour later.

Sergeant Preston had served with the Houston Police Department for 41 years and was scheduled to retire in the coming weeks. He is survived by his elderly parents, whom he cared for.

Investigator
Lemuel Bruce
Houston Fire Marshal’s Office, Texas

End of Watch: Friday, October 16, 2020

Investigator Lemuel Bruce was shot and killed at about 3:30 am while conducting surveillance as part of an ongoing arson investigation in the Timbergrove and Heights areas.

He and six other investigators were conducting surveillance following a string of vehicle fires. Investigator Bruce noticed a car matching the description near the intersection of Seamist Drive and West 18th Street, four blocks away from where another vehicle fire had been set minutes earlier. He was in radio contact with the other investigators and was attempting to coordinate a stop of the vehicle when the man opened fire on him, striking him multiple times.

Despite his wounds, Investigator Bruce was able to return fire. The subject committed suicide.

Investigator Bruce was a U.S. Marine Corps veteran. He had served with the Houston Fire Department for 16 years and had been assigned to the Houston Fire Marshal’s Office as a sworn arson investigator for five years. He is survived by his wife, 12-year-old daughter, and 8-year-old son.

Sergeant
Dennis R. Oliver, Jr
Highland Village Police Department, Texas

End of Watch: Friday, October 2, 2020

Sergeant Dennis Oliver died after contracting COVID-19 as the result of a presumed exposure while on duty at the Highland Village Police Department.

Sergeant Oliver had served with the Highland Village Police Department for 19 years. He is survived by his wife and two sons.
In early 2020, thousands of law enforcement officers and other first responders throughout the country contracted COVID-19 during the worldwide pandemic due to requirements of their job. Many of these first responders died as a result of COVID-19.

Correctional Officer
Donald E. Parker
Texas Department of Criminal Justice
Neal Unit, Potter County, Texas

End of Watch: Sunday, September 27, 2020

Correctional Officer Donald Parker died after contracting COVID-19 during an outbreak among staff and inmates at the Neal Unit in Potter County, Texas.

Officer Parker had served with the Texas Department of Criminal Justice for nine years and was assigned as a Food Service Manager. He is survived by two sons.
In early 2020, thousands of law enforcement officers and other first responders throughout the country contracted COVID-19 during the worldwide pandemic due to requirements of their job. Many of these first responders died as a result of COVID-19.

Police Officer
Jose Antonio Buso, Sr
Alamo College Police Department, Texas

End of Watch: Friday, September 25, 2020

Police Officer Tony Buso died as the result of complications after contracting COVID-19 in the line of duty.

Officer Buso had served with the Alamo Colleges Police Department for eight years and was assigned to Palo Alto College. He had previously served with the Bexar County Sheriff’s Office. He is survived by his wife, five children, grandchildren, father, and siblings.

Deputy Sheriff
Christopher Smith
McLennan Sheriff’s Office, Texas

End of Watch: Monday, September 21, 2020

Deputy Sheriff Chris Smith died after contracting COVID-19 during a confirmed exposure at the McLennan County Tax Office at 215 North 5th Street in Waco.

Deputy Smith was a U.S. Air Force veteran and had served with the McLennan County Sheriff’s Office for 30 years. He is survived by his wife and child.
In early 2020, thousands of law enforcement officers and other first responders throughout the country contracted COVID-19 during the worldwide pandemic due to requirements of their job. Many of these first responders died as a result of COVID-19.

Corrections Officer
Susan Ann Roberts
Williamson County Sheriff’s Office, Texas

End of Watch: Saturday, September 12, 2020

Corrections Officer Susan Roberts died after contracting COVID-19 during an outbreak among staff and inmates at the Williamson County Jail at 306 West 4th Street in Georgetown.

Officer Roberts had served with the Williamson County Sheriff’s Office for 11 years. She is survived by her husband, two children, five grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. Her son also serves in law enforcement.
In early 2020, thousands of law enforcement officers and other first responders throughout the country contracted COVID-19 during the worldwide pandemic due to requirements of their job. Many of these first responders died as a result of COVID-19.

Corporal
Charles E. Holt
Tarrant County Sheriff’s Office, Texas

End of Watch: Tuesday, September 1, 2020

Corporal Charles Holt died after contracting COVID-19 at the Tarrant County Corrections Center while working at the booking desk.

Corporal Holt had served with the Tarrant County Sheriff’s Office for six years. He is survived by his wife and three sons.
In early 2020, thousands of law enforcement officers and other first responders throughout the country contracted COVID-19 during the worldwide pandemic due to requirements of their job. Many of these first responders died as a result of COVID-19.

Corrections Officer V
James Weston, Jr.
Texas Department of Criminal Justice
Winnsboro, Texas

End of Watch: Wednesday, August 26, 2020

Corrections Officer V James Weston died after contracting COVID-19 during an outbreak among staff and inmates at the Johnston Unit in Winnsboro, Texas.

Officer Johnston had served with the Texas Department of Criminal Justice for 13 years. He is survived by his two sons.
In early 2020, thousands of law enforcement officers and other first responders throughout the country contracted COVID-19 during the worldwide pandemic due to requirements of their job. Many of these first responders died as a result of COVID-19.

Police Officer
Jorge Cabrera
Mission Police Department, Texas

End of Watch: Monday, August 24, 2020

Police Officer Jorge Cabrera died after contracting COVID-19 as the result of a presumed exposure while on duty.

Officer Cabrera had served with the Mission police Department for 12 years. He is survived by his wife and three children.
In early 2020, thousands of law enforcement officers and other first responders throughout the country contracted COVID-19 during the worldwide pandemic due to requirements of their job. Many of these first responders died as a result of COVID-19.

Sergeant
Raul Salazar, Jr.
Nueces County Sheriff’s Office, Texas

End of Watch: Sunday, August 23, 2020

Sergeant Rual Salazar died after contracting COVID-19 while on duty.

Sergeant Salazar had served with the Nueces County Sheriff’s Office for seven years and had served in law enforcement for 22 years. He had previously served with the Beeville Police Department, Texas A&M University Kingsville Police Department, Kingsville Police Department, and Kleberg County Sheriff’s Office. He is survived by his wife.
In early 2020, thousands of law enforcement officers and other first responders throughout the country contracted COVID-19 during the worldwide pandemic due to requirements of their job. Many of these first responders died as a result of COVID-19.

Police Officer
Lucas Saucedo
United States Department of Homeland Security
Eagle Pass, Texas

End of Watch: Friday, August 21, 2020

Officer Lucas Saucedo died after contracting COVID-19 during a presumed exposure while on duty at the Port of Eagle Pass in Eagle Pass, Texas.

Officer Saucedo Had served with the United States Customs and Border Protection – Office of Field Operations for 15 years.
In early 2020, thousands of law enforcement officers and other first responders throughout the country contracted COVID-19 during the worldwide pandemic due to requirements of their job. Many of these first responders died as a result of COVID-19.

Corrections Officer V
Herbert Garcia
Texas Department of Criminal Justice
Terrell Unit
Rosharon, Texas

End of Watch: Tuesday, August 18, 2020

Corrections Officer V Herbert Garcia died after contracting COVID-19 during an outbreak among staff and inmates at the Terrell Unit.

Officer Garcia had served with the Texas Department of Criminal Justice for 29 years and was assigned to the Southern Regional Transportation Unit. He is survived by his three children.
In early 2020, thousands of law enforcement officers and other first responders throughout the country contracted COVID-19 during the worldwide pandemic due to requirements of their job. Many of these first responders died as a result of COVID

Corrections Officer V
Elizabeth Jones
Texas Department of Criminal Justice
Carol Young Medical Facility
Galveston County, Texas

End of Watch: Saturday, August 15, 2020

Corrections Officer V Elizabeth Jones died after contracting COVID-19 during an outbreak amongst staff and inmates at the Carol Young Medical Facility in Galveston County.

Officer Jones had served with the Texas Department of Criminal Justice for 18 years. She is survived by her husband and two children.
In early 2020, thousands of law enforcement officers and other first responders throughout the country contracted COVID-19 during the worldwide pandemic due to requirements of their job. Many of these first responders died as a result of COVID-19.

Corrections Officer IV
Lebouath Boua
Texas Department of Criminal Justice
Coffield Unit
Tennessee Colony, Texas

End of Watch: Wednesday, August 12, 2020

Corrections Officer IV Lebouath Boua died after contracting COVID-19 during an outbreak among staff and inmates at the Coffield Unit in Tennessee Colony, Texas.

Officer Boua had served with the Texas Department of Criminal Justice for four years. He is survived by two children.
In early 2020, thousands of law enforcement officers and other first responders throughout the country contracted COVID-19 during the worldwide pandemic due to requirements of their job. Many of these first responders died as a result of COVID-19.

Corrections Officer
Dudley J. Champ
Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office, Texas

End of Watch: Monday, August 10, 2020

Correctional Officer Dudley Champ died after contracting COVID-19 during an outbreak among staff and inmates at the Jefferson County Correctional Facility.

Officer Champ was a U.S. Navy veteran and had served with the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office for one year. He is survived by his wife and two sons.
In early 2020, thousands of law enforcement officers and other first responders throughout the country contracted COVID-19 during the worldwide pandemic due to requirements of their job. Many of these first responders died as a result of COVID-19

Police Officer
Sheena Day Yarbrough-Powell
Beaumont Police Department, Texas

End of Watch: Sunday, August 9, 2020

Police Officer Sheena Yarbrough-Powell was killed when her patrol car was struck head-on by a wrong-way driver on Cardinal Drive near the Highway 347 overpass.

The crash occurred on the divided highway at approximately 2:30 am. Her partner was seriously injured in the crash. The driver of the other vehicle was also injured.

Officer Yarbrough-Powell had served with the Beaumont Police Department for two years. She is survived by her husband.

Border Patrol Agent
Marco A. Gonzales
United States Department of Homeland Security
Customs and Border Protection
Brackettsville, Texas

End of Watch: Wednesday, August 5, 2020

Border Patrol Agent Marco Gonzales died after contracting COVID-19 while on duty at the Brackettsville Station in Brackettsville, Texas.

Agent Gonzales was a U.S. Marine Corps veteran and had served with the United States Border Patrol for 15 years. He is survived by his wife, three children, and his parents.
In early 2020, thousands of law enforcement officers and other first responders throughout the country contracted COVID-19 during the worldwide pandemic due to requirements of their job. Many of these first responders died as a result of COVID-19.

Deputy Sheriff
Michael Stevens
Galveston County Sheriff’s Office, Texas

End of Watch: Friday, July 31, 2020

Deputy Sheriff Mickey Stevens died as the result of complications of contracting COVID-19 during an outbreak among employees and inmates at the Galveston County Jail.
In early 2020, thousands of law enforcement officers and other first responders throughout the country contracted COVID-19 during the worldwide pandemic due to requirements of their job. Many of these first responders died as a result of COVID-19.

Retired Police Sergeant
Manuel “Memo” Ochoa
South Padre Island Police Department, Texas

End of Watch: Thursday, July 30, 2020

It is with great sadness that we need to add Retired Sergeant Manuel “MO” Ochoa to our 2020 Memorials page.
MO passed away on July 30, 2020 after a long and courageous battle with Kidney Disease, and recently COVID-19.

MO has been competing in the Texas Police Games for over 25+ years, and has always been a big supporter of the Games. MO has competed in Bowling for most of those years and has encouraged others to come and compete.

For the last several years at the annual games, MO has still attended and competed even though he would need to schedule appointments with the hosting cities Doctors so that he could get his kidney dialysis completed around the competitions.

He was very involved in the police games especially when helping to get the games hosted in the Brownsville/South Padre Island area. He loved the camaraderie it brought with officers gathering from all over the state. He represented the games and South Padre Island always in a happy positive manner.

He has won numerous Gold, Silver and Bronze medals during his years competing in the Bowling portion of the Texas Police Games, and has also competed in other events.

MO was inducted into the Texas Police Games Hall of Fame in 2018.

Manuel is survived by his wife, step-daughter, son and grandson, and numerous other family and friends across the state of Texas and beyond.

Corrections Officer V
Eric Johnson
Texas Department of Criminal Justice
Huntsville, Texas

End of Watch: Monday, July 27, 2020

Corrections Officer V Eric Johnson died after contracting COVID-19 during an outbreak among staff and inmates at the Byrd Unit in Huntsville, Texas.

Officer Johnson had served with the Texas Department of Criminal Justice for 18 years. He is survived by his wife, four children, and parents. His wife, father, and stepmother also work for the agency.
In early 2020, thousands of law enforcement officers and other first responders throughout the country contracted COVID-19 during the worldwide pandemic due to requirements of their job. Many of these first responders died as a result of COVID-19.

Corrections Officer IV
Ruben Martinez
Texas Department of Criminal Justice
Lopez State Jail
Edinburg, Texas

End of Watch: Sunday, July 26, 2020

Corrections Officer IV Ruben Martinez died after contracting COVID-19 during an outbreak among staff and inmates at the Lopez State Jail.

Officer Martinez had served with the Texas Department of Criminal Justice for two year. He is survived by his three children.
In early 2020, thousands of law enforcement officers and other first responders throughout the country contracted COVID-19 during the worldwide pandemic due to requirements of their job. Many of these first responders died as a result of COVID-19.

Investigator
Mark Brown
Harris County Constable’s Office
Precinct 5
Houston, Texas

End of Watch: Saturday, July 25, 2020

Investigator Mark Brown died after contracting COVID-19 during a presumed exposure while on duty.

He had been assigned to protest marches, COVID testing sites, and food giveaways during the pandemic.

Investigator Brown had served with the Harris County Constable’s Office Precinct 5 for three years and had served in law enforcement for 23 years. He had previously served with the Hempstead Police Department and the Spring Branch Independent School District Police Department. He is survived by his wife and four children.
In early 2020, thousands of law enforcement officers and other first responders throughout the country contracted COVID-19 during the worldwide pandemic due to requirements of their job. Many of these first responders died as a result of COVID-19.

Border Patrol Agent
Agustin Aguilar Jr.
United States Department of Homeland Security
Customs and Border Protection
Eagle Pass, Texas

End of Watch: Saturday, July 25, 2020

Border Patrol Agent Agustin Aguilar died after contracting COVID-19 in a presumed exposure while on duty.

Agent Aguilar had served with the United States Border Patrol for 19 years and was assigned to the Eagle Pass South Station. He is survived by his wife, three children, parents, and 10 siblings.
In early 2020, thousands of law enforcement officers and other first responders throughout the country contracted COVID-19 during the worldwide pandemic due to requirements of their job. Many of these first responders died as a result of COVID-19.

Corrections Officer IV
Jackson Pongay
Texas Department of Criminal Justice
Humble, Texas

End of Watch: Sunday, July 19, 2020

Corrections Officer IV Jackson Pongay died after contracting COVID-19 during an outbreak among staff and inmates at the Lychner State Jail in Humble.

Officer Pongay had served with the Texas Department of Criminal Justice for four years.
In early 2020, thousands of law enforcement officers and other first responders throughout the country contracted COVID-19 during the worldwide pandemic due to requirements of their job. Many of these first responders died as a result of COVID-19.

Corrections Officer V
Jerry Esparza
Texas Department of Criminal Justice
Richmond, Texas

End of Watch: Wednesday, July 15, 2020

Corrections Officer V Jerry Esparza died after contracting COVID-19 during an outbreak among staff and inmates at the Jester III Unit in Richmond, Texas.

Officer Esparza had served with the Texas Department of Criminal Justice for 25 years. He is survived by his wife and four children.
In early 2020, thousands of law enforcement officers and other first responders throughout the country contracted COVID-19 during the worldwide pandemic due to requirements of their job. Many of these first responders died as a result of COVID-19.

Director
N. Kyle Coleman
Bexar County Fire Marshall’s Office, Texas

End of Watch: Tuesday, July 14, 2020

Director Kyle Coleman died after contracting COVID-19 while coordinating the county’s emergency response to the pandemic.

Director Coleman had served in law enforcement for 46 years. He had retired from the Bexar County Sheriff’s Office before joining the Bexar County Fire Marshal’s Office, where remained a sworn law enforcement officer and served as the county’s director of the Office of Emergency Management. He is survived by his wife and two stepsons.

Director Coleman was a highly respected researcher of forgotten line of duty deaths in Texas and surrounding states. He was a regular contributor and researcher for the Officer Down Memorial Page and the Texas Peace Officers’ Memorial Foundation. He was personally responsible for the discovery and research of countless line of duty deaths in Texas.
In early 2020, thousands of law enforcement officers and other first responders throughout the country contracted COVID-19 during the worldwide pandemic due to requirements of their job. Many of these first responders died as a result of COVID-19.

Officer
Roel De La Fuente
United States Department of Homeland Security
Customs and Border Protection
Hidalgo, Texas

End of Watch: Monday, July 13, 2020

Officer Roel De La Fuente died after contracting COVID-19 as the result of presumed exposure at the Pharr Commercial Facility in Hidalgo County, Texas.

Officer De La Fuente had served with the United States Customs and Border Protection – Office of Field Operations for 19 years. He is survived by his wife and two children.
In early 2020, thousands of law enforcement officers and other first responders throughout the country contracted COVID-19 during the worldwide pandemic due to requirements of their job. Many of these first responders died as a result of COVID-19.

Sheriff
Abraham Vega
Lynn County Sheriff’s Office, Texas

End of Watch: Sunday, July 12, 2020

Sheriff Abraham Vega died after contracting COVID-19. He spent 3 weeks total in the hospital. 2 weeks in Lubbock and then was air lifted on July 7 to Dallas for ECMO.
Sheriff Vega was 48 years old. He began his career in law enforcement as a dispatcher over 29 years ago at the Lynn County Sheriff’s Department in Tahoka, Texas. He served in every position Dispatch, the Jail, and as a Patrol Deputy for that entire time. He ran for the office of Lynn County Sheriff for the first time in 2007 and won. He was reelected this year for his second term as Sheriff.

He is survived by a wife and two children, and grandchildren.

Police Officer
Ismael Chavez
McAllen Police Department, Texas

End of Watch: Saturday, July 11, 2020

Police Officer Ismael Chavez and Police Officer Edelmiro Garza were shot and killed from ambush while responding to a domestic disturbance call at a home in the 3500 block of Queta Street.

They had approached the front door of the home when they were suddenly ambushed and shot before drawing their weapons or making an emergency broadcast. Other officers who were sent to check on them came across the scene and immediately requested backup.

The subject who ambushed them committed suicide as additional units arrived on scene.

Officer Chavez had served with the McAllen Police Department for 2-1/2 years.

Police Officer
Edelmiro Garza, Jr.
McAllen Police Department, Texas

End of Watch: Saturday, July 11, 2020

Police Officer Edelmiro Garza and Police Officer Ismael Chavez were shot and killed from ambush while responding to a domestic disturbance call at a home in the 3500 block of Queta Street.

The subject who ambushed them committed suicide as additional units arrived on scene.

Officer Garza had served with the McAllen Police Department for nine years.

Border Patrol Agent
Enrique J. Rositas, Jr.
United States Department of Homeland Security
Customs and Border Protection
McAllen, Texas

End of Watch: Saturday, July 11, 2020

Border Patrol Agent Enrique Rositas died after contracting COVID-19 during a presumed exposure while on duty at the McAllen Station.

Agent Rositas was a U.S. Air Force veteran. He had served with the United States Border Patrol for 22 years and was assigned to the Rio Grande Valley Sector. He is survived by his wife, son, and daughter.
In early 2020, thousands of law enforcement officers and other first responders throughout the country contracted COVID-19 during the worldwide pandemic due to requirements of their job. Many of these first responders died as a result of COVID-19.

Lieutenant
Bobby Almager
Corpus Christi International Airport
Department of Public Safety
Corpus Christi, Texas

End of Watch: Friday, July 10, 2020

Lieutenant Bobby Almager died after contracting COVID-19 during an outbreak within the agency, including multiple officers on his squad.

Lieutenant Almager had served with the Corpus Christi International Airport Department of Public Safety for 24 years. He is survived by his wife and three daughters.
In early 2020, thousands of law enforcement officers and other first responders throughout the country contracted COVID-19 during the worldwide pandemic due to requirements of their job. Many of these first responders died as a result of COVID-19.

Corrections Officer
Kenneth Harbin
Texas Department of Criminal Justice,
Snyder, Texas

End of Watch: Saturday, July 4, 2020

Corrections Officer Kenneth Harbin died after contracting COVID-19 during an outbreak among staff and inmates at the Daniel Unit in Snyder, Texas.

Officer Harbin had served with the Texas Department of Criminal Justice for over 30 years.
In early 2020, thousands of law enforcement officers and other first responders throughout the country contracted COVID-19 during the worldwide pandemic due to requirements of their job. Many of these first responders died as a result of COVID-19

Parole Officer IV
Joseph William Lange
Texas Department of Criminal Justice,
Parole Division, Texas

End of Watch: Wednesday, July 1, 2020

Parole Officer IV Joseph Lange died after contracting COVID-19 while performing offender supervision duties.

Officer Lange had served with the Texas Department of Criminal Justice – Parole Division for 25 years and was assigned to the Texas Board of Pardons and Paroles. He is survived by his son, mother, father, and two half-sisters.
In early 2020, thousands of law enforcement officers and other first responders throughout the country contracted COVID-19 during the worldwide pandemic due to requirements of their job. Many of these first responders died as a result of COVID-19.

Juvenile Corrections Officer
Sean Rahina Wilson
Texas Juvenile Justice Department
Giddings State School
Lee County, Texas

End of Watch: Sunday, June 28, 2020

Juvenile Corrections Officer Sean Wilson died after contracting COVID-19 during an outbreak among staff and juvenile offenders at the Giddings State School in Lee County, Texas.

Officer Wilson had served with the Texas Juvenile Justice Department for six years. He is survived by his wife and son.
In early 2020, thousands of law enforcement officers and other first responders throughout the country contracted COVID-19 during the worldwide pandemic due to requirements of their job. Many of these first responders died as a result of COVID-19.

Sergeant Constable Pct. #5
Dale Multer
Travis County Constable’s Office, Texas

End of Watch: Saturday, June 27, 2020

Sergeant Dale Multer died after contracting COVID-19 in the line of duty while serving civil papers. Sergeant Multer had been with the Travis County Constable’s Office for over 24 years, and was planning to retire next year.

Civilian
Raul V. Cantu “Shihan”
Karate/Submission Wrestling

End of Watch: Thursday, June 18, 2020

The Texas Police Athletic Federation recognizes Mr. Raul V. Cantu for his participation in helping with the Texas Police Games.
Mr. Cantu “Shihan” began his training in 1972 and participated in many championship tournaments throughout the world. He taught martial arts for over 40 years. He passed away on June 18th, 2020 of COVID-19.

Mr. Cantu “Shihan” founded and headed (CEO/president) of TASK (Texas Amateur Sports Karate) which allows Karate Schools from the Rio Grand Valley, Laredo and Mexico to participate in championship tournaments with major karate organizations.

Mr. Cantu helped revise the (T.P.A.F.) Rules and was to help judge in both martial arts events (Karate and Submission Wrestling) in the 2020 Police Games that were to be held in South Padre, but due to COVID-19 the 2020 Police Games were canceled. The 2021 Games in Padre Island will honor his achievements and his name in Karate and Submission Wrestling events.

Deputy Sheriff
Juan Menchaca
Harris County Sheriff’s Office, Texas

End of Watch: Saturday, June 13, 2020

Deputy Sheriff Juan Menchaca died as the result of complications of contracting COVID-19 while on duty.

Deputy Menchaca had served with the Harris County Sheriff’s Office for 14 years and was assigned to the Courts Division. He had over 32 years of law enforcement experience and had previously served with the Nacogdoches Police Department and the Texas Department of Criminal Justice – Parole Division. He is survived by his wife and seven children.
In early 2020, thousands of law enforcement officers and other first responders throughout the country contracted COVID-19 during the worldwide pandemic due to requirements of their job. Many of these first responders died as a result of COVID-19.

Corrections Officer V
Thomas Adedayo Ogungbire
Texas Department of Criminal Justice,
Dallas, Texas

End of Watch: Thursday, June 11, 2020

Corrections Officer V Thomas Ogungbire died after contracting COVID-19 during an outbreak at the Hutchins State Jail in Dallas County.

Officer Ogungbire had served with the Texas Department of Criminal Justice for 10 years. He is survived by his wife and two children.
In early 2020, thousands of law enforcement officers and other first responders throughout the country contracted COVID-19 during the worldwide pandemic due to requirements of their job. Many of these first responders died as a result of COVID-19.

Deputy Constable
Caleb Rule
Fort Bend County Constable’s Office – Precinct 4, Texas

End of Watch: Friday, May 29, 2020

Deputy Constable Caleb Rule was inadvertently shot and killed by a Fort Bend County Sheriff’s Officer while responding to a suspicious person call in the 3900 block of Chestnut Bend in Sienna Plantation at 1:40 am.

A citizen had reported seeing a man running from a home in the area. Deputy Constable Rule responded to the scene along with three sheriff’s deputies and located a home with an open door. Deputy Constable Rule was clearing the home with the sheriff’s deputies when he was mistaken for a suspect inside of the home. Deputy Constable Rule was struck in the chest in an area not protected by his vest.

He was transported to a local hospital where he succumbed to his wounds.

Deputy Constable Rule had served with the Fort Bend County Constable’s Office – Precinct 4 for nine months and had previously served with the Missouri City Police Department for 14 years. He is survived by his wife and five children.

Chief of Police
Marvin Wayne Trejo
Dumas Police Department, Texas

End of Watch: Sunday, May 10, 2020

Chief of Police Marvin Trejo died after contracting COVID-19 during an outbreak within the Dumas Police Department.

Chief Trejo was a U.S. Marine Corps veteran and had served in law enforcement for 30 years. He is survived by his wife and four children.
In early 2020, thousands of law enforcement officers and other first responders throughout the country contracted COVID-19 during the worldwide pandemic due to requirements of their job. Many of these first responders died as a result of COVID-19.

Correction Officer V
Maria Mendez
Texas Department of Criminal Justice,
Huntsville, Texas

End of Watch: Saturday, May 9, 2020

Corrections Officer V Maria Mendez died after contracting COVID-19 in a presumed exposure during an outbreak at the Wynne Unit in Huntsville, Texas.

Officer Mendez had served with the Texas Department of Criminal Justice for 10 years. She is survived by four children.
In early 2020, thousands of law enforcement officers and other first responders throughout the country contracted COVID-19 during the worldwide pandemic due to requirements of their job. Many of these first responders died as a result of COVID-19.

Corrections Officer V
Jesse Wayne Bolton
Texas Department of Criminal Justice,
Lovelady, Texas

End of Watch: Friday, May 8, 2020

Corrections Officer V Jesse Bolton died after contracting COVID-19 during an outbreak at the Eastham Unit in Lovelady, Texas.

Officer Bolton had served with the Texas Department of Criminal Justice for 12 years. He is survived by his wife and stepdaughter.
In early 2020, thousands of law enforcement officers and other first responders throughout the country contracted COVID-19 during the worldwide pandemic due to requirements of their job. Many of these first responders died as a result of COVID-19.

Sergeant
Raymond John Scholwinski
Harris County Sheriff’s Office, Texas

End of Watch: Wednesday, May 6, 2020

Sergeant Raymond John Scholwinski died after contracting COVID-19 during a confirmed exposure to another employee at 7900 Will Clayton Parkway in Humble, Texas.

Sergeant Scholwinski had served with the Harris County Sheriff’s Office for 44 years. He is survived by his wife and four children.
In early 2020, thousands of law enforcement officers and other first responders throughout the country contracted COVID-19 during the worldwide pandemic due to requirements of their job. Many of these first responders died as a result of COVID-19.

Sergeant
Lionel Q. Martinez
Alamo Colleges Police Department, Texas

End of Watch: Tuesday, May 5, 2020

Sergeant Lionel Martinez suffered a fatal heart attack while responding to a shooting call on North Main Avenue at about 10:00 pm.

He was responding to the initial call when he suffered the heart attack. His patrol car then struck a parked car on East Dewey Place near McCullough Avenue. Other responding officers immediately started CPR and he was transported to a local hospital where he died a short time later.

Sergeant Martinez had served with the Alamo Colleges District Police Department for 21 years.

Police Officer
Jason Knox
Houston Police Department, Texas

End of Watch: Saturday, May 2, 2020

Police Officer Jason Knox was killed in a helicopter crash in the 17050 block of Imperial Valley Drive at about 2:00 am.

He was aboard the MD 369E helicopter as the tactical flight officer. The helicopter had been requested to search the nearby Greens Bayou after police had received unconfirmed reports that two bodies were in the area. The helicopter experienced an issue during the search and crashed into an apartment complex clubhouse.

Responding fire department units extricated Officer Knox and the pilot from the wreckage.

Officer Knox suffered fatal injuries in the crash and the pilot suffered severe injuries.

Officer Knox had served with the Houston Police Department for eight years. He is survived by his wife, two children, and his parents

Detention Deputy
Timothy De La Fuente
Bexar County Sheriff’s Office, Texas

End of Watch: Thursday, April 30, 2020

Detention Deputy Timothy De La Fuente died after contracting COVID-19 during an outbreak of the illness at the Bexar County Adult Detention Center Annex where he was assigned.

Deputy De La Fuente had served with the Bexar County Sheriff’s Office for 27 years. He is survived by his wife.

Corrections Officer V
James D. Coleman
Texas Department of Criminal Justice,
Abilene, Texas

End of Watch: Tuesday, April 28, 2020

Corrections Officer V James Coleman died after contracting COVID-19 while on duty at the Middleton Unit in Abilene, Texas.

Officer Coleman had served with the Texas Department of Criminal Justice for 20 years. He is survived by his wife and one child.
In early 2020, thousands of law enforcement officers and other first responders throughout the country contracted COVID-19 during the worldwide pandemic due to requirements of their job. Many of these first responders died as a result of COVID-19.

Deputy Sheriff
John Andrew Rhoden
Bell County Sheriff’s Office, Texas

End of Watch: Saturday, April 26, 2020

Deputy Sheriff John Rhoden was struck and killed by a vehicle while attempting to deploy spike strips during a vehicle pursuit of a stolen car.

The pursuit had started in Williamson County and proceeded into Bell County along I-35 at about 1:40 am. Deputy Rhoden was preparing to deploy the spike strips near Exit 294 when he was struck by a tractor trailer.

Deputy Rhoden had served with the Bell County Sheriff’s Office for 10 years.

Corrections Officer
Coy D. Coffman, Jr.
Texas Department of Criminal Justice,
New Boston, Texas

End of Watch: Sunday, April 26, 2020

Corrections Officer Coy Coffman died after contracting COVID-19 while on duty at the Telford Unit in New Boston, Texas.

Officer Coffman was a U.S. Army veteran and had served with the Texas Department of Criminal Justice for nine years. He is survived by his wife and one child.
In early 2020, thousands of law enforcement officers and other first responders throughout the country contracted COVID-19 during the worldwide pandemic due to requirements of their job. Many of these first responders died as a result of COVID-19.

Chaplain II
Akbar N. Shabazz
Texas Department of Criminal Justice,
Huntsville, Texas

End of Watch: Thursday, April 23, 2020

Chaplain II Akbar Shabazz died after contracting COVID-19 while supervising inmates at the Wynne Unit in Huntsville, Texas.

Chaplain Shabazz had served with the Texas Department of Criminal Justice for 48 years. He is survived by his wife and five children.
In early 2020, thousands of law enforcement officers and other first responders throughout the country contracted COVID-19 during the worldwide pandemic due to requirements of their job. Many of these first responders died as a result of COVID-19.

Corrections Officer V
Jonathon Keith Goodman
Texas Department of Criminal Justice,
Amarillo, Texas

End of Watch: Tuesday, April 21, 2020

Corrections Officer V Jonathon Goodman died after contracting COVID-19 while on duty at the William P. Clements Unit in Amarillo, Texas.

Officer Goodman had served with the Texas Department of Criminal Justice for 11 years. He is survived by his wife and two children.
In early 2020, thousands of law enforcement officers and other first responders throughout the country contracted COVID-19 during the worldwide pandemic due to requirements of their job. Many of these first responders died as a result of COVID-19.

Police Officer
Justin Putnam
San Marcus Police Department, Texas

End of Watch: Saturday, April 18, 2020

Police Officer Justin Putnam was shot and killed when he and other officers responded to a domestic assault incident at an apartment complex in the 2900 block of Hunter Road at about 7:00 pm.

As the officers entered the apartment they were ambushed by a male subject with a rifle. Officer Putnam was killed and two other officers were critically wounded.

The subject committed suicide after shooting the officers.

Officer Putnam had served with the San Marcos Police Department for 5-1/2 years.

Corrections Officer IV
Kelvin D. Wilcher
Texas Department of Criminal Justice,
Huntsville, Texas

End of Watch: Monday, April 6, 2020

Corrections Officer IV Kelvin Wilcher died after contracting COVID-19 while on duty at the Estelle Unit.

Officer Wilcher was a U.S. Navy veteran and had served with the Texas Department of Criminal Justice for one year. He is survived by his wife and two children.
In early 2020, thousands of law enforcement officers and other first responders throughout the country contracted COVID-19 during the worldwide pandemic due to requirements of their job. Many of these first responders died as a result of COVID-19.

Special Deputy Marshal
Brian Leath Magee
United States Department of Justice
United States Marshal’s Service,
Houston, Texas

End of Watch: Monday, April 6, 2020

Special Deputy Marshal Brian Magee died after contracting COVID-19 in an exposure while on duty at the Bob Casey Federal Courthouse in Houston, Texas.

Special Deputy Marshal Magee had served with the United States Marshals Service for 11 years and had previously served with the Harris County, Texas, Constable’s Office – Precinct 4 for 25-1/2 years. He is survived by his wife and four children.
In early 2020, thousands of law enforcement officers and other first responders throughout the country contracted COVID-19 during the worldwide pandemic due to requirements of their job. Many of these first responders died as a result of COVID-19.

Sheriff
Kirk A. Coker
Hutchinson County Sheriff’s Office, Texas

End of Watch: Sunday, March 29, 2020

Sheriff Kirk Coker suffered a fatal heart attack shortly after responding to an unattended death near Fritch, Texas.

He had responded from his home to the scene of the death. While at the scene of the investigation he received numerous calls about gatherings in violations of the COVID-19 social distancing executive order. When cleared the death investigation and was enroute to the scene of the reported gathering when he suffered a heart attack as he drove on State Highway 136, one mile east of Fritch. His vehicle left the roadway.

He was found by other deputies approximately two hours later.

Sheriff Coker had served with the Hutchinson County Sheriff’s Office for 12-1/2 years and had served in law enforcement for 35 years. He is survived by his wife and three children.

Corrections Officer IV
Amanda L. De Leon
Texas Department of Criminal Justice, Texas

End of Watch: Friday, March 20, 2020

Corrections Officer IV Amanda Lee De Leon was killed in a vehicle crash on Highway 281, five miles south of George West, Texas while traveling from the Lopez State Jail to the Connally Unit for an assignment.

Her vehicle left the roadway during a period of rain and overturned.

Officer De Leon had served with the Texas Department of Criminal Justice for six years. She is survived by her parents and brother.

Sr. Deputy Sheriff
Christopher Korzilius
Travis County Sheriff’s Office, Texas

End of Watch: Wednesday, March 18, 2020

Senior Deputy Christopher Korzilius was killed in a vehicle crash in the 7700 block of RM 2244 at 6:50 am.

His unmarked department vehicle was struck by another vehicle that crossed over into his lane causing Deputy Korzilius vehicle to go over the guardrail and overturn down the embankment, trapping him inside. He succumbed to his injuries at the scene.

Deputy Korzilius had served with the Travis County Sheriff’s Office for four years and was assigned to the VICE Unit.

Deputy Sheriff
Richard Whitten
Liberty County Sheriff’s Office, Texas

End of Watch: Monday, February 3, 2020

Deputy Sheriff Richard Whitten succumbed to complications of a gunshot wound sustained on May 29th, 2019, while responding to a shots fired call in Cleveland.

He was en route to a training class and had just driven past the scene of the double-murder when the shooting was dispatched over the radio. As he responded back to the scene and encountered the suspect fleeing in a vehicle. Deputy Whitten and a member of the Cleveland Independent School District Police Department pursued the subject onto CR 2243, where the man immediately pulled into the parking lot of a veterinary office.

As Deputy Whitten challenged the subject the man produced a handgun and opened fire, striking him in the neck and paralyzing him. The other officer returned fire as the subject fled. The man later committed suicide after being located by other officers.

Deputy Whitten was flown to Memorial Hermann Hospital, in Houston, in critical condition. On February 3rd, 2020, he suffered a complication while undergoing physical therapy and passed away.

Deputy Whitten had served with the Liberty County Sheriff’s Office for four years

Police Officer
Alan McCollum
Corpus Christi Police Department, Texas

End of Watch: Friday, January 31, 2020

Police Officer Alan McCollum was struck and killed by a vehicle while conducting a traffic stop on Highway 358 near Carroll Lane at 9:30 pm.

He and two other officers were on the scene of the stop when another vehicle struck one of the patrol cars, then struck him and a second officer. Officer McCollum suffered fatal injuries and the other officer suffered non-life-threatening injuries.

Officer McCollum was a U.S. Army veteran and recipient of the Bronze Star. He had served with the Corpus Christi Police Department for almost seven years. He is survived by his wife and three children.

Retired Senior Police Officer
David N. Martinez
Houston Police Department, Texas

End of Watch: Sunday, January 12, 2020

David N Martinez (age 58) passed away on 1-12-2020.Retired Senior Officer Martinez is/was survived by his wife ( Leslie Martinez ) who retired as a Lt. with the Houston PD. Son David N Martinez is an active Houston police officer. David joined the Houston PD on November 14th, 1983 and retired on 5-7-2016. David worked in various assignments including Central and Midwest patrol, employee services, Jail division and Auto Theft. David was an active softball player competing for various law enforcement teams and an excellent billiards player. David used these talents to compete in the Texas police games in softball and billiards earning a billiards HOF induction in 2014.

Police Officer
Nicholas Reyna
Lubbock Police Department, Texas

End of Watch: Saturday, January 11, 2020

Police Officer Nicholas Reyna and Lieutenant Eric Hill, of the Lubbock Fire Department, were struck and killed by a vehicle while at the scene of a previous crash on I-27 near Drew Street.

Officers and rescue personnel were at the scene of an earlier single-vehicle rollover crash on the interstate when a second vehicle also crossed the median. As officers then dealt with the second crash a third vehicle left the travel lanes and struck Officer Reyna, Lieutenant Hill, and a second firefighter. Officer Reyna and Lieutenant Hill both suffered fatal injuries and the second firefighter was critically injured.

Officer Reyna had served with the Lubbock Police Department for one year.