Palm Beach County Sheriff's Office honors deputies killed in crash via social media
Palm Beach County Sheriff Ric Bradshaw confirmed two deputies died and a third is in critical condition after being struck by an SUV along Southern Boulevard near Lion Country Safari on Thursday, Nov. 21.
The three officers had pulled over to the shoulder of the road with a faulty PBSO motorcycle, awaiting a fourth deputy and jumper cables when the 31-year-old woman swerved into them, trying to avoid a crash with the slowing car in front of her. The officers were flown to St. Mary’s Medical Center in West Palm Beach.
Florida police unions and sheriff departments showed their support both online and in person. Hours after the crash, law-enforcement officers including Broward County Sheriff's Office deputies held a procession for the officer in critical condition and the two killed. Florida leaders and politicians took to social media to share their condolences and pray for the families.
Read full story: Everything we know about the crash that killed 2 PBSO deputies, critically wounded a third
Palm Beach County Sheriff's Office memorializes deputies injured, killed in crash
Deputy Sheriff Ralph “Butch” Waller served with distinction for over 18 years in our Motor Unit. He began his law enforcement career with the Royal Palm Beach Police Department, earning a reputation for dedication and professionalism before the department merged with PBSO in… pic.twitter.com/V1jy4LiaCo
— PBSO (@PBCountySheriff) November 22, 2024
Corporal Luis Paez dedicated over 36 years of his life to law enforcement, beginning his career with PBSO in January of 1988 as a Corrections Deputy. He later transitioned to Road Patrol and ultimately served passionately as a Motor Deputy for more than 20 years. His dedication… pic.twitter.com/uM692nUwQx
— PBSO (@PBCountySheriff) November 22, 2024
This is our hero, Deputy Ignacio “Dan” Diaz, currently fighting for his life. Deputy Diaz joined PBSO in 2004 and has been a valued member of our Motor Unit for over 10 years. He is currently in critical condition. We ask for your thoughts and prayers for him and his family… pic.twitter.com/PHH4TGHvQo
— PBSO (@PBCountySheriff) November 22, 2024
It is with profound sadness that we share the loss of two of our own: Corporal Luis Paez & Deputy Sheriff Ralph “Butch” Waller. Both were tragically struck and killed by a driver on Southern Blvd while conducting traffic enforcement. Deputy Ignacio “Dan” Diaz was also critically… pic.twitter.com/AaTzOH3gJS
— PBSO (@PBCountySheriff) November 21, 2024
Our PBSO family is grieving a profound loss today. This tragedy has deeply impacted not only our Motor Unit but our entire agency. We ask for your understanding and patience as we navigate this heartbreaking time. #SheriffRicBradshaw pic.twitter.com/gluKyoYJVY
— Sheriff Ric Bradshaw (@RicBradshaw) November 22, 2024
Florida county sheriffs, police unions extend their condolences to PBSO
The Florida Highway Patrol extends its deepest condolences to the @PBCountySheriff family, friends, and loved ones of the two deputies who lost their lives in a tragic crash, while another remains in critical condition. https://t.co/NAZv18Qlom
— FLHSMV (@FLHSMV) November 21, 2024
We are deeply saddened by the tragic loss of the motor officers from the Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Department in yesterday’s accident. Our heartfelt condolences go out to their families, friends, and colleagues. #YourBestChoiceMDCPS pic.twitter.com/H9JAKRpCAU
— Miami-Dade SchoolsPD (@MDSPD) November 22, 2024
Please join us in keeping the @PBCountySheriff and the loved ones of these Deputies in your thoughts and prayers. pic.twitter.com/f1RLnznBOo
— Fort Lauderdale FOP (@FtLFOP) November 22, 2024
The Polk County Sheriff's Office offers our sincerest condolences for members of the @PBCountySheriff, the people of Palm Beach County, and the friends and families of the victims of the horrible crash in Loxahatchee Thursday morning, November 21st.
We pray for the families of…— Polk County Sheriff 🚔 Grady Judd (@PolkCoSheriff) November 22, 2024
We extend our heartfelt condolences to our brothers and sisters at the Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office. Our thoughts and prayers are with the deputies' families, friends, colleagues and the entire community during this difficult time. Rest in peace 🕊️💙 pic.twitter.com/t1WEqSqKZ3
— Sheriff Gregory Tony, Ph.D. (@bsosherifftony) November 21, 2024
Law enforcement officers honor PBSO deputies killed Thursday in memorial procession
In a powerful show of unity, hundreds of law enforcement officers gathered for an emotional procession for two Palm Beach County deputies who died in a crash on Southern Boulevard hours earlier.
Read: https://t.co/7xXHzenfCv pic.twitter.com/MlKmYr8IJU— FOX29WFLX (@FOX29WFLX) November 21, 2024
#HappeningNow Broward Sheriff’s Office deputies arrive for procession for two Palm Beach County Sheriff’s deputies killed in a crash. Another deputy remains in critical condition at hospital @nbc6 https://t.co/wThLDDWUFG pic.twitter.com/8nEDIQNHy8
— Marissa Bagg (@MarissaNBC6) November 21, 2024
West Palm Beach Mayor Keith A. James releases statement of condolences
West Palm Beach Mayor Keith A. James released a statement regarding the crash on the City of West Palm Beach website Friday.
“We are so saddened by the news of the recent loss of the PBSO officers who gave their lives to protect our community. Their unwavering commitment to protect and serve will forever be remembered and appreciated by our community," James wrote in the statement. "Unfortunately, they paid the ultimate sacrifice as they worked to protect the safety of our community. Our community owes each of them an eternal debt of gratitude."
"Our deepest sympathies and condolences go out to the families and loved ones of the deceased. There can be no worse pain than to learn that your loved one will not be coming back home," he continued. "To each of the family members of the deceased, our thoughts and prayers for you to receive supernatural strength to get through this most difficult time."
The mayor ended his statement praying that the PBSO family as well as the families of the deputies "find a source of supernatural comfort and peace" during this difficult time.
"May God bless you all.”
More Florida politicians and government officials shine light on fatal car crash
Our thoughts are with the families of the two @PBCountySheriff deputies who lost their lives today when their motorcycles were struck by a driver in Palm Beach. @CaseyDeSantis and I are praying for your comfort in this difficult time.
We are also praying for the quick and full…— Ron DeSantis (@GovRonDeSantis) November 22, 2024
Just spoke to Sheriff @RicBradshaw to let him know Ann and I are praying for the @PBCountySheriff team, the families of those who lost their lives and those who were injured.
Our brave men and women in uniform willingly put their lives on the line every day to keep us safe, but…— Rick Scott (@SenRickScott) November 21, 2024
Praying for Sheriff @RicBradshaw and the entire @PBCountySheriff law enforcement family after learning about a critical incident involving three PBSO deputies. https://t.co/jrW9Ohrh1z
— AG Ashley Moody (@AGAshleyMoody) November 21, 2024
This morning, we are heartbroken by the tragic loss of two Palm Beach County Sheriff’s deputies, with another fighting for his life following a crash on Southern Boulevard in Loxahatchee. pic.twitter.com/u3BM5tlMQ9
— Mike Caruso (@RepMikeCaruso) November 21, 2024
Ashley Ferrer is a journalist at The Palm Beach Post, part of the USA TODAY Florida Network. Help support our journalism. Subscribe today.
This article originally appeared on Palm Beach Post: PBSO Deputies killed in car crash on Southern Blvd. in West Palm Beach
