JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — Jacksonville Sheriff's Officer Lance Whitaker died after crashing his patrol car early Tuesday morning.
Jacksonville Sheriff Mike Williams said the crash was likely due to the wet roads.
Whitaker was a 17-year veteran of JSO. In a 2004 episode of the TV series "COPS," Whitaker talked about why he became an officer.
PHOTOS: Fallen Jacksonville officer appeared on 2004 episode of "COPS"
Front of @JSOPIO draped with the #thinblueline pic.twitter.com/qRxTV9VYJt
— Bridgette Matter (@bridgetteANjax) May 15, 2018
“Initially, I became interested in law enforcement after a ride-along with a buddy of mine (who) works for the Sheriff’s Office. What kinda got me hooked was the first call I went on with him was a burglary in progress, a couple units, with us kicking in doors trying to apprehend suspects. After that, fun and excitement is basically why I wanted to get into law enforcement,” Whitaker said.
Rest In Peace #JSO Police Officer Lance C. Whitaker #7656. We will miss your kind heart and contagious smile. You are gone but will not be forgotten.
— Jax Sheriff's Office (@JSOPIO) May 15, 2018
End of Watch: 05-15-2018 pic.twitter.com/uN18JF1T5l
Whitaker had a calm demeanor throughout the "COPS" episode, even when a man ran from him.
“Listen, you’re going to go to jail for possession of cocaine and resisting without violence. Any questions?” he said to the suspect.
Law enforcement sources said Whitaker was a good guy and a good officer.
JSO Director Mike Bruno said Whitaker’s death is a reminder that law enforcement officers make sacrifices and take risks every day.
“That's what these men and women are. They’re heroes and, unfortunately, some of them don't come back,” Bruno said.
From JSO: Officer Whitaker was a 17 year veteran with the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office assigned to work the Zone 6 midnight shift. Zone 6 encompasses the Northside of Jacksonville. He was 48 years old. @ActionNewsJax pic.twitter.com/6TsKHnD6CA
— Bridgette Matter (@bridgetteANjax) May 15, 2018
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