Honoring

Police Officer Chad Swanson

Manhattan Beach Police Department, California

EOW: Oct. 4, 2023 | Age: 35 | Tour: 13 Years

Police Officer Chad Swanson was killed in a motorcycle crash on the 405 Highway at Del Amo Avenue. While on his way to work at 5:15 a.m., a vehicle struck his department motorcycle after another vehicle made an unsafe lane change. The impact threw Officer Swanson off his motorcycle. He was transported to Harbor Medical Center where he died from his injuries. In 2017, despite being wounded at the Route 91 Harvest Country Music Festival, he repeatedly ran into the crowd bringing people to safety. Officer Swanson had served with the Manhattan Beach Police Department for 13 years and previously served with the Hawthorne Police Department. He is survived by his wife, three sons, and parents.

Honoring

Deputy Sheriff Tucker Blakely

Knox County Sheriff's Office, Tennessee

EOW: Oct. 2, 2023 | Age: 29 | Tour: 2 Years

Deputy Sheriff Tucker Blakely succumbed to gunshot wounds he received while responding to a domestic violence call at the 3200 block of Denver Lane in Knoxville. At 11:30 p.m., deputies encountered an armed subject after receiving a domestic violence call. The situation escalated, and a gun battle ensued. Deputy Blakely was struck twice. The subject was shot and killed by returning gunfire. Deputy Blakely was transported to UT Medical Center and remained on life support so his organs could be donated. Deputy Blakely was a United States Army veteran and had served with the Knox County Sheriff's Office for two years. He is survived by his wife, son, and brother.

Honoring

Battalion Chief Earl Dyer

Richmond Fire Department, Virginia

EOW: Oct. 5, 2023 | Age: None | Tour: None

We are mourning the tremendous loss of Battalion Chief Earl Dyer. While at work this morning, he experienced a sudden medical emergency. Chief Dyer was transported to a local hospital, where he was treated by emergency medical staff. Unfortunately, he did not recover. Chief Dyer began his career with the RFD in September of 1983. So he just celebrated his 40th anniversary, an incredible and honorable accomplishment. “Chief Dyer is remembered as a man of the highest ethics, integrity, and possessing a strong moral compass,” said Chief of Fire Melvin D. Carter. “He brought his own values to the organization in ways too many to enumerate. A dedicated public servant not only with RFD but also the U.S. Army. A true patriot who survived Desert Shield/Desert Storm and three tours in Iraq. A consummate professional, both in and out of uniform. But he treasured, first and foremost, his relationship with his family and friends. His loving wife, Anna, was by his side when he took his final breath.” Grief counseling and peer support are available to those who need assistance during this difficult time.

Honoring

Firefighter Troy Thompson

Seven Springs Volunteer Fire Department, North Carolina

EOW: Oct. 4, 2023 | Age: 46 | Tour: 4 Years

Fire and rescue personnel in Lenoir County, NC are mourning the loss of a dedicated member. Seven Springs Firefighter Troy Thompson suffered severe chest pains at the scene of a wreck Wednesday afternoon. He was transported by Wayne County EMS to UNC Wayne Health where he died, according to Lenoir County Emergency Services. "Thompson was a selfless, dedicated and godly man. His commitment to his community was demonstrated by his service as a deacon in his church, his determination to respond to every emergency call as quickly as possible, as well as sharing his knowledge and expertise as a mechanic. Thompson knew the importance of teamwork and brotherhood. He led by example and was always there to help and assist others. He passed along those principles to his son, Mason Thompson, teaching him about being part of a brotherhood and that all first responders are family, Lenoir officials wrote on its Facebook page.