Nov 26, 2008 10:12 pm US/Eastern
Thousands Attend Funeral For Fallen Officer
Hollywood Police Officer Alex Del Rio Laid To Rest
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HOLLYWOOD (CBS4) ―
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Hollywood police officer Alex Del Rio
CBS
Close to three thousand people came to pay their respects and honor fallen Hollywood police officer and nine year veteran, Alex Del Rio. Many of those at the memorial service at Calvary Chapel of Fort Lauderdale were fellow law enforcement officers, men and women in uniform grieving one of their own.
As the hearse carrying Del Rio's body arrived at the church, accompanied by the 'rider-less horse', hundreds of officers in their formal dress uniforms lined the entrance way to the church as the casket was carried inside.
The fallen officer's mother and family members tearfully watched as the casket with an American flag draped over it was escorted inside.
During the service Del Rio's mother, Miriam Fernandez, read a special tribute letter to her "perfect son" and promised to be strong.
"You were perfect in every way. You always brought a smile to may face and everyone around you. You brought peace, happiness and lots of joy to my life," said Fernandez.
Fernandez also talked about her son's zest for life, the eternal smile on his face and his love for family and friends.
"I want to tell you my son Alex, you are my hero and now my angel in the sky. I don't say good bye, I say until we meet again in heaven my son; I love you."
Hollywood Police Chief Chadwick Wagner said Alex lived as a role model and a hero and everyone was better for knowing him.
"As Chief of Police I especially grateful that Alex chose the Hollywood Police Department which became a partnership between Alex and the department where we helped him grow and in return he made us a better agency," said Wagner.
Other speakers included Hollywood City Manager Cameron Benson, his cousin Lissette, his step father and his uncle Sal Fernandez.
"Please, in remembrance of Alex today, hug each other no matter how old, young or tough you are. And say 'I love you mom, dad or friend' that would bring a smile to Alex and to your hearts," said Sal Fernandez.
Calvary Chapel's assistant pastor Fidel Gomez told those assembled that he never met Del Rio but after speaking with his fellow officers and friends he felt cheated that he never got the opportunity to know such a wonderful man.
"Such a great man, a man that was willing to help, willing to assist. Not only a man that loved his job, but as told to me, loved life; a good man. So our most heartfelt condolences to you, the Del Rio family, the Lord blessed you with a great young man," said Gomez.
He said he understood that with death some people may have feelings of anger, frustration and fatigue, but it was natural and to put their faith in God and Jesus for understanding and acceptance.
The service concluded with a tribute to the 31 year olds life. The video tribute began with pictures of Alex when he was a baby and then progressed through his life as he grew into a young man. The final pictures showed him skydiving and posing proudly in his uniform after becoming a police officer for Hollywood P.D.
One of the thousands attending the service was Del Rio's partner, Officer Larry Burgess. He said that while his friend and colleague was taken too young, he died doing what he loved most, protecting and serving the community.
The 31 year old was killed last Saturday while pursuing a speeder on West Sheridan Street in Hollywood. Investigators believe he swerved to avoid hitting a taxi, lost control of his car and crashed into a palm tree. Burgess said Alex was well loved in the community as well as by his colleagues.
"He's like a son to me, let me tell you. He is pure, God took one of his angels," said Burgess, "there is no doubt in my mind."
Hollywood police captain Tony Rode remembered the young officer. "Alex was just a great guy. I worked with him. I supervised him. He was a joy, great sense of humor."
Following the service, the funeral procession proceeded to the Fred Hunter Memorial Gardens on Taft Street at 63rd Avenue.
This is the first time in two decades that a Hollywood Police Officer has been killed in the line of duty.
A fund has been set up to assist Del Rio's family. Donations can be made through:
Broward County PBA Hope Fund - Alex Del Rio
Attn: Linda Brickman
2650 West State Road 84
Fort Lauderdale, FL 33312
(954) 584-7600
(© MMIX, CBS Broadcasting Inc. All Rights Reserved.)
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