Orlando, Fla. — A former Orlando police officer is being remembered as a hero who selflessly gave his life to protect the city he served.
That’s what Police Chief Orlando Rolon said after announcing the death of Kevin Valencia Monday evening.
Officer Kevin Valencia: EOW-3-15-21. Gone but never forgotten. pic.twitter.com/XC2D9m4c4y
— Orlando Police (@OrlandoPolice) March 16, 2021
Valencia died from injuries he suffered on June 11, 2018 when he was shot in the head while responding to a domestic violence call.
Orange County Sheriff John Mina, who was Orlando Police Chief at the time, says Valencia was well-liked and respected, and Mayor Buddy Dyer says Valencia served the community with dedication and heroism.
A wreath-laying ceremony was held at Orlando Police headquarters Tuesday morning, with widow Meghan Valencia accepting her husband’s retirement plaque and a city proclamation making Valencia a honorary K9 handler.
“Something Kevin always wanted to be was a K9 officer,” Chief Rolon said.
This evening, Officer Kevin Valencia was escorted by our officers, as well as those from other agencies. Brother, we’ll take it from here... pic.twitter.com/UcywwuLdug
— Orlando Police (@OrlandoPolice) March 16, 2021
In October 2020, Valencia was also awarded the prestigious Purple Heart award.
Funeral services will be held on March 24, 2021.
My thoughts and prayers are with Meghan, the kids and my @OrlandoPolice family. Officer Kevin Valencia risked his life for this community and paid the ultimate sacrifice. He is a hero and will be remembered forever #NeverForget https://t.co/qTboADCcqm
— Sheriff John Mina (@SheriffMina) March 15, 2021
A true hero who fought until his last breath is now at peace.
— Mike Chitwood (@SheriffChitwood) March 16, 2021
Even those who never met Officer Kevin Valencia will honor him by stepping up to protect the innocent
This family and @OrlandoPolice are in my prayers tonight, as all LEOs & their families are every night. https://t.co/t3ftPM7Ou1 pic.twitter.com/8xW9Ptoqe2
Cox Media Group
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