Renaming the 4700 block of Rising Sun Avenue between Wyoming and Mascher Streets to "Officer Lauretha A. Vaird Way" in honor of her bravery, sacrifice, and dedication to public service.

WHEREAS, Officer Lauretha A. Vaird served with the Philadelphia Police Department for nine years, assigned to the 25th District, where she was a dedicated and courageous member of the force, risking her life daily to protect the citizens of Philadelphia; and

WHEREAS, On January 2, 1996, Officer Vaird responded to a bank robbery in progress at a PNC Bank located in the 4700 block of Rising Sun Avenue, where she was the first officer to arrive at the scene; and

WHEREAS, Officer Vaird’s courageous response to the scene was met with violence, resulting in her being shot on duty; and

WHEREAS, Officer Vaird, a 43-year-old single mother of two boys, died from her gunshot wounds, making her the first female Philadelphia Police Officer to be killed in the line of duty; and

WHEREAS, Officer Vaird was described by those who knew her as a warm and caring individual, always willing to help others, and she was remembered fondly for her kindness, dedication, and exemplary service both as a police officer and as a mother; and

WHEREAS, Many of Officer Vaird’s colleagues, including those who worked alongside her in the 25th District, expressed their admiration for her as a role model, noting her exceptional work ethic, her ability to connect with others, and the positive impact she had on those around her. Police officers who knew her described her as a "class act," a "nice lady," and a "wonderful person," highlighting her ability to touch lives through her acts of kindness, whether introducing colleagues to new music or simply being there for her team; and

WHEREAS, Officer Vaird’s sacrifice has left a lasting and profound impact on the Philadelphia Police Department, the community she served, and her surviving family, especially her two sons, who continue to honor her memory; and

WHEREAS, Officer Lauretha A. Vaird’s bravery in the face of danger serves as a powerful reminder of the selflessness, courage, and dedication displayed by those who serve in law enforcement; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED, THAT THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PHILADELPHIA, Hereby renames the 4700 block of Rising Sun Avenue between Wyoming and Mascher Streets to “Officer Lauretha A. Vaird Way” in recognition of her sacrifice, bravery, and the enduring legacy of her service to the City of Philadelphia.

FURTHER RESOLVED, That an Engrossed copy of this Resolution be presented to the family of Officer Lauretha A. Vaird as a token of the City’s appreciation for her service and sacrifice.

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