This makes us really sad.
Kerrie Orozco of the Omaha Police Department was killed in the line of duty on Wednesday — one day before she was supposed to start her maternity leave.
Officer Orozco was part of the department’s fugitive task force. While being served a felony arrest warrant, the suspect — Marcus Wheeler — pulled out a gun and began shooting.
Gunfire was exchanged, and Kerrie was struck in her chest. She later succumbed to her wounds. The suspect was killed as well.
The 29-year-old officer was to begin her maternity leave the day after she was killed. She was not pregnant at the time of her death; her daughter Olivia Ruth was born premature three months ago and was to leave the hospital with Kerrie on Thursday.
Omaha’s mayor and the Governor of Nebraska both ordered flags to be flown at half mast through Memorial Day. Kerrie’s funeral will take place on Tuesday.
Omaha Police Chief Todd Schmaderer was in disbelief over the death of the seven-year veteran:
“She was a friend, a popular officer. I just can’t even imagine that this has happened. The city of Omaha owes her and her family a debt of gratitude.”
In addition to Olivia Ruth, Kerrie is survived by her family, her husband Hector, and two stepchildren.
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The Omaha Police Department has set up a NEST 529 College Savings account for Olivia Ruth which you can contribute to here. Kerrie’s mother has stated her stepchildren are well-provided for and assistance should go to the baby.
More information about Kerrie and her service can be found on their official Facebook page.
Our hearts go to Kerrie’s family and fellow law enforcement officers.
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