MONTGOMERY, Ala. – Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA) Sec. Hal Taylor on Tuesday issued a statement on the passing of Mt. Vernon Police Officer Ivan Lopez Monday, who was killed Aug. 22.
According to Mobile’s WKRG, “Monday night the officer was headed home to Foley on Highway 59 when investigators say a pickup truck flew through the stop sign at County Road 36, killing the officer on impact. The investigation continues, but Summerdale Police Chief Kevin Brock says early projections indicate the other driver could’ve been going double the posted 45mph speed limit.”
Said Taylor: “On behalf of the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency, I would like to offer my sincerest condolences to the family and friends of Mt. Vernon Police Officer Ivan Lopez. We join the law enforcement community in grieving the loss of yet another valiant and courageous hero who answered the call to protect and serve his local community,” said Taylor. “While a career in law enforcement is filled with a variety of perilous and daunting tasks, there are also other daily hazards that remind us all to cherish the time we have with our loved ones. Our thoughts and prayers are with Officer Lopez’s friends, family and the Mt. Vernon Police Department, as well as his local community during this devastating time. As a 12-year veteran of law enforcement, his service, sacrifice and brave actions will live on through those he impacted in his career as a selfless public servant.
“This indescribable tragedy also serves as a heartbreaking reminder of why it is paramount for everyone traveling on Alabama’s roadways to obey all laws and adhere to all traffic signs and signals. When traveling, we want the motoring public, as well as our fellow law enforcement officers to return home safely.”
