Corpus Christi Police Officer Dies 10 Days After Struck Working Funeral Traffic

Corpus Christi Police Officer Vicente Ortiz Jr. dies after being hit by vehicle during funeral procession. GoFundMe set up for family.

On a tragic day in Corpus Christi, Texas, Senior Officer Vicente Ortiz Jr. lost his life in a devastating accident. Ortiz, a dedicated 15-year veteran of the police department, was struck by a vehicle while on duty, working traffic control during a funeral procession. The impact caused him to be thrown from his police motorcycle, resulting in fatal injuries. This heartbreaking loss has left his wife and two children behind, mourning the loss of a beloved family member.

In the wake of this tragedy, a GoFundMe page has been created to support Ortiz's grieving family. Launched on May 26, the fundraiser has already garnered significant support, with 124 donations totaling approximately $12,000 towards its $60,000 goal. The outpouring of generosity and solidarity from the community is a testament to the impact Ortiz had on those around him.

Ortiz's legacy as a hero was not limited to his final act of sacrifice. In 2016, he was honored by the Corpus Christi Police Department with a Lifesaving Award for rescuing a man who had attempted to take his own life. Ortiz's quick thinking and bravery saved the man's life, showcasing his unwavering commitment to serving and protecting others. Additionally, in 2014, Ortiz received a lifesaving ribbon for administering CPR to his father, former Sinton Mayor Vicente Ortiz Sr., ultimately saving his life.

The tragic loss of Ortiz comes just months after the death of Officer Kyle Hicks, who was fatally shot while responding to a domestic disturbance. The law enforcement community in Corpus Christi has been shaken by these devastating losses, highlighting the dangers that officers face in the line of duty every day.

As we mourn the loss of Senior Officer Vicente Ortiz Jr., we honor his memory as a dedicated public servant and a true hero. His selfless actions and unwavering dedication to his community will never be forgotten. May his legacy live on as a reminder of the sacrifices made by law enforcement officers across the country.

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