Honoring Our Fallen Heroes – July 25th, 2025 - Brought to You By Good Greek Moving And Storage
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
In 2025, 47 law enforcement professionals have fallen in the line of duty, including 2 in Florida.
Our Most Recent Loss
- In California, DOC Agent Joshua Byrd was murdered in a targeted shooting by a parolee who’d been released from prison a week and a half earlier. A Navy veteran, Josh is survived by a wife and three children.
- In California, Detectives Joshua Kelly-Eklund, Victor Lemus and William Osborn were killed during an explosion while involved in tactical training. Joshua is survived by his wife and seven children. Victor is survived by his wife, who also works in law enforcement, and three children. William is survived by his wife, who is also in law enforcement, and six children.
- In Ohio, Officer Phillip Wagner (pictured) was murdered in an ambush attack while in his patrol car. The shooter was killed with return fire. A Marine Corps veteran, Phillip is survived by his wife and two children.
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 41 years old, with 11 years of service. 29 widows and 78 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.