Honoring Our Fallen Heroes – August 22nd, 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 167 heroes nationwide, including 8 in Florida, who gave their lives to protect us.
The Cost This Year
In 2025, 59 law enforcement professionals have fallen in the line of duty, including 2 in Florida.
Our Most Recent Losses
- In Kentucky, Sergeant Ryan Hudson (pictured) died due to injuries sustained while responding to an active shooter situation involving multiple people in a crowded area. Ryan assisted with the arrests of four suspects who’ve been charged with first-degree murder. He’s survived by his wife and two children.
- In South Carolina, Trooper Dennis Ricks was struck and killed by a driver of a commercial truck while conducting a traffic stop. He’s survived by his wife.
- In Hawaii, Officer Suzanne O was murdered while responding to a trespassing complaint. Upon arriving on the scene responding officers were fired upon. The suspect was detained and charged with first degree murder.
- In Utah, Sergeant Lee Sorensen and Officer Eric Estrada were murdered while responding to multiple 911 hang up calls from a residence. Upon arriving at the home officers began talking with a resident about the incident when the suspect exited the home and began firing on officers. The suspect was detained by additional responding officers. Lee is survived by his wife and three children. Eric 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 12 years of service. 39 widows and 98 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.