LINCOLN, Neb.-A Lincoln police officer who was shot last month while attempting to serve an arrest warrant has succumbed to his injuries.
According to Lincoln Police, on Wednesday, August 26th, 2020, Lincoln Police Department Investigator Mario Herrera was shot and critically wounded while attempting to serve a 2nd-Degree Assault warrant related to a homicide occurring in March of 2020.
Police say, despite skilled and determined medical care, as well as the thoughts, prayers, and support of his family, friends and community, he succumbed to his injuries. Investigator Herrera’s valiant fight ended as he passed away in the early morning hours of September 7th, 2020.
Investigator Herrera was a highly decorated 23-year veteran of the Lincoln Police Department and leaves behind his wife and four children. Our thoughts and prayers are with them as they grieve his death. Please
continue to respect their privacy during this difficult time.
Police said in a statement, "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."
Lincoln police officers will be draping their badges to honor his sacrifice and memory.
A press conference is scheduled for Tuesday, September 8th, 2020 at 8:45 a.m.
Governor Ricketts has ordered that flags in Nebraska be flown at half-staff to honor Investigator Herrera.
"Susanne and I were devastated to learn of the passing of Investigator Mario Herrera,” said Gov. Ricketts. “Investigator Herrera’s service and sacrifice will never be forgotten. I also want to thank people across the state who stepped up to support the Herrera family in the midst of this terrible tragedy. From holding prayer vigils to donating blood, the community’s response was powerful and inspiring. Now more than ever, it is critical for all of us to come together and support the men and women who put on the uniform and risk their lives every day to help keep our communities safe.”
Flags will fly at half-staff starting immediately and until sunset on September 11, 2020, which is Patriot Day. Flags flying at half-staff on Friday will also honor the victims of the September 11, 2001 terror attacks.