Patrolman Valentine D. "Val" Lopez, Jr., San Antonio Police Department, Texas

Patrolman Valentine D. "Val" Lopez, Jr.

San Antonio Police Department, Texas

End of Watch Wednesday, June 21, 2006

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Valentine D. "Val" Lopez, Jr.

Patrolman Val Lopez succumbed to gunshot wounds sustained on February 17, 1977, after he responded to about an armed man at a bar.

He was initially the cover officer but was closer, so he reached the scene first. According to witnesses, as soon as Patrolman Lopez entered the bar, the subject began to shoot. Patrolman Lopez was shot twice; once in his abdomen and the other hit his badge first before striking his chest.

The subject was arrested, charged, and convicted of an attempt to commit capital murder. He was sentenced to life in prison and has since died.

While Patrolman Lopez eventually returned to duty and served another 29 years, he never fully recovered from the wound to his abdomen. He developed complications during surgery and died on June 21, 2006.

Patrolman Lopez had served with the San Antonio Police Department for 31 years. He is survived by his wife and two daughters. He was buried in the Mission Park South Cemetery in San Antonio.

Bio

Age 54
Tour 31 years
Badge 287

Incident Details

Cause Gunfire
Incident Date Thursday, February 17, 1977
Weapon Handgun
Offender Died in prison

weapons violation

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Heavenly Father, You are Compassionate and Merciful. None of America’s Peace Officers leave home without the fear of not returning at the end of their watch. It is a fear that is lived daily. Unfortunately, the worst does sometimes come to pass, and lives are left shattered. Lord God, bless and keep the hearts and souls of those who have lost loved ones in the line of duty. Wipe away the tears from their eyes. Soothe their pain and bind up their emotional wounds through the wounds of Your beloved Son, the Lord Jesus Christ. In His name, and by His authority, I pray. Amen.

“Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called sons [children] of God.” [Matthew 5:9 ESV]

“And I heard the voice of the Lord saying, “Whom shall I send, and who will go for us?” Then I said, “Here am I! Send me.” [Isaiah 6:8 ESV]

"Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and staff, they comfort me." [Psalm 23:4 ESV]

"Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted." [Matthew 5:4 ESV]

Chaplain Steven R. Closs, DDiv, MSBS, NCCA, NACM
Ordained Independent NACM Minister
The Badge 183 Peacemakers Prayer Ministry
Member: Fellowship of Christian Peace Officers - USA

Captain Steven R. Closs (Retired)
Nashua NH Police Department (1974-1998)

June 21, 2025