Honoring Our Fallen Heroes – June 6th, 2025 - Driven By Braman Motorcars
Bottom Line: This weekly tribute is dedicated to the brave men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to our communities. It also serves as a sobering reminder of the risks our law enforcement officers face every day to keep us safe.
In 2023, we saw progress in reducing line-of-duty deaths, but sadly, that trend did not hold. In 2024, line-of-duty deaths rose by 17% nationwide, with Florida alone mourning five additional losses. Across the country, 342 officers were shot in the line of duty, resulting in 50 deaths—an 8% increase from the previous year.
A Heavy Toll in 2024
Last year, we lost 165 heroes nationwide, including 8 in Florida, who gave their lives to protect us.
The Cost This Year
So far in 2025, 30 officers have fallen in the line of duty, including 1 in Florida each leaving behind a legacy of courage and sacrifice.
Our Most Recent Losses
- In California, Officer Samuel Riveros (pictured) was murdered while responding to an emergency call of a shooting. Upon arriving on the scene Samuel and other officers were fired upon. Following one officer having been injured by gunfire and others coming under attack, Samuel charged the shooter preventing him from attacking others. The suspect was wounded with returned fire and has been charged with murder. Samuel is survived by a wife and two children.
- In New Mexico, Officer Timothy Ontiveros was murdered while conducting a traffic stop. The driver refused to cooperate with law enforcement and then began firing on officers killing Timothy. The suspect was killed with return fire. Timothy is survived by two daughters.
- In Texas, Sergeant J.D. White was killed when he was struck by a vehicle while escorting a funeral procession.
Remembering the Families Left Behind
As we honor those we’ve lost; we must also hold close the families they leave behind. The average fallen officer is just 39 years old, with 10 years of service. 16 widows and 41 children are grieving the loss of a parent. Their sacrifice is profound.
A Call to Support
Let us stand united in support of our law enforcement officers. Back the badge, share their stories, and show them they are not alone. They need our gratitude and encouragement just as much as we need their protection. Together, we can honor the fallen by ensuring their sacrifices are never forgotten.