WHEREAS, Officer Richard Mendez was a deeply caring person, with a heart big enough to fit all of Philadelphia. He was always willing to serve beyond the work of the 25th Police District and he was especially supportive and protective of his police family; and
WHEREAS, He loved the District and the people in it. Officer Mendez was a proud father to his daughter, Mia. His family was everything to him; and
WHEREAS, Officer Mendez was struck down at the Philadelphia International Airport's Garage D at about 11:00 p.m., on Thursday, October 12th , 2023; and
WHEREAS, He and his partner arrived in the parking garage, preparing to start their shift, when they heard the sound of shattering glass and observed people breaking into a vehicle. As they approached the men they were fired upon. Officer Mendez was transported to Penn Presbyterian Medical Center where his End of Watch was at 11:34 p.m.; and
WHEREAS, Officer Mendez served with the Philadelphia Police Department for almost 23 years and was assigned to the Airport Unit. He is survived by his wife and daughter; and
WHEREAS, Officer Mendez, of Somerton, spent many of his years as an officer in the 25th District, patrolling some of the city’s most turbulent neighborhoods in North Philadelphia. Officer Mendez was reassigned to the Airport Unit in the last few years; and
WHEREAS, This loss weighs heavy on the hearts and minds of the Mendez family, the officers of the Philadelphia Police Department, the Council and the people of Philadelphia; and now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, THAT THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PHILADELPHIA, offers its full condolences to the family of Police Officer Richard Mendez, for the ultimate sacrifice made in the name of peace. May his exemplary life be remembered for his kindness, his love, and for the justice he wrought.
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