Police Officer Ronald Leon DeHerrera, Denver Police Department, Colorado

Police Officer Ronald Leon DeHerrera

Denver Police Department, Colorado

End of Watch Tuesday, April 1, 1997

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Ronald Leon DeHerrera

Police Officer Ron DeHerrera succumbed to injuries he received when his patrol car was struck by a stolen vehicle on March 26, 1997.

Officer DeHerrera and his partner were heading to the scene of a car prowler as the suspect was heading in their direction in a stolen Ford Mustang. The suspect struck their patrol car at an estimated speed of 95 mph at the intersection of 19th Street and Federal Boulevard in Denver.

Officer DeHerrera was in the passenger seat and suffered massive head and internal injuries. He succumbed to his injuries on April 1, 1997. The other officer suffered minor injuries and made a full recovery.

The 17-year-old suspect was convicted of vehicular homicide and sentenced to 9 years. He was denied parole for the fourth time in January 2004.

Officer DeHerrera had just graduated from the academy the day before the incident.

Bio

Age 32
Tour 2 days
Badge Not available

Incident Details

Cause Vehicular assault
Incident Date Wednesday, March 26, 1997
Weapon Automobile
Offender Denied parole in 2004

juvenile offender, stolen vehicle

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Hello Cousin. I stumbled upon this memorial page, and I often believe that it is God's way of reassuring me that you are at peace. That you are now in His presence. At times, I feel quite isolated as all of my father's family has passed away. I miss Gram, but I am confident she is with you. I miss each and every one of you dearly. I wish you were here, but I understand that you are in a far better place. I love you, cousin, my brother, my friend.

Monique DeHerrera
Counsin

June 4, 2025