Investigator Mario Herrera: End of Watch, September 7, 2020.
A covered LPD badge outside the Hall of Justice, September 7, 2020.
“Sadness does not begin to describe fully our community’s sense of loss with the passing of Investigator Mario Herrera,” said Mayor Leirion Gaylor Baird.
Thousands of Nebraskans gathered between the University of Nebraska-Medical Center and 40th and A streets in Lincoln to show support for fallen Lincoln Police Officer Mario Herrera.
Omaha Police led an escort Monday afternoon where law enforcement agencies as far as Scribner paid tribute to the 23-year-decorated officer.
City leaders gathered near the Hall of Justice.
“To have it be Labor Day is even more significant to see the statewide support from law enforcement for our Lincoln Police Department,” said councilwoman Tammy Ward.
Councilman Bennie Shobe says “we’re very fortunate we’re a safe community and while law enforcement does its job keeping us safe, we haven’t lost an officer.”
Herrera is the seventh officer from LPD to die in the line of duty – the first in 52 years.
Susanne and I were devastated to learn of the passing of Investigator Mario Herrera. Investigator Herrera’s service and sacrifice will never be forgotten.
— Gov. Pete Ricketts (@GovRicketts) September 7, 2020
Ricketts has ordered flags to fly at half-staff through Friday, which is known as Patriots Day.
Nebraskans gathered on overpasses and along streets paying respects. A prayer vigil was held Monday night at the Herrera’s perish too. The outpouring of support has gathered over $100,000 on an active Go Fund Me link.
“We care about each other. We are a compassionate community and we need to take care of each other and today people came out to offer their love and support,” Mayor Leirion Gaylor Baird on the support for Officer Herrera.
Donations can be dropped off outside the Hall of Justice. However, LPD is asking that no perishable food items be dropped off. If you have monetary donation or cards, call dispatch, 402-441-6500, and an officer will meet you to retrieve the donation and get them to the family. Donations can also be dropped off at Lincoln First Credit Union locations.
“The Lincoln Police Department is devastated by the loss of one of our most outstanding police officers. Mario was an exceptional investigator, a selfless teammate, and a tireless public servant. Empathetic, kind, and utterly committed to serving victims and protecting his community, Mario was an exemplary human being who just happened to be a Lincoln police officer,” The Lincoln Police Department posted on Facebook.
Lincoln police officers will be draping their badges to honor his sacrifice and memory.
“Difficult times reveal who we are as a community, they’re revealing in so many ways how strong we, how resilient we are and how compassionate and caring we are,” Baird said. “I’m so proud of our community.”