Miami-Dade County Police Department mourns loss after third PBSO deputy dies from last week's traffic crash

MIAMI - The Miami-Dade County Police Department expressed their condolences on Monday after the passing of Palm Beach County Sheriff Deputy Ignacio "Dan" Diaz following a traffic crash last week.

"We express our deepest condolences to our brothers and sisters at @PBCountySheriff. Our thoughts and prayers are with family, friends, and colleagues of Deputy Ignacio “Dan” Diaz," MDPD said. "We will #NeverForget his service and sacrifice."

According to the Palm Beach County Sheriff's Office, or PBSO, Diaz passed away at 12:42 pm on Monday. He is the third Palm Beach County officer to lose his life following the crash on Thursday on State Road 80 in Loxahatchee in western Palm Beach County.

The crash occurred after a deputy called two colleagues after his motorcycle failed to start on the grassy part of the shoulder. Next, an SUV traveling eastbound veered off the road and struck the three standing officers as they waited for help.

The impact then caused Diaz and the two other deputies to go airborne in different directions.

"Despite his courageous fight, Deputy Diaz lost the battle due to the injuries sustained by the tragic crash that also claimed the lives of Cpl. Luis Paez and D/S Butch Waller.  "Once again, we find ourselves mourning the loss of another hero who dedicated his life to serving and protecting Palm Beach County," PBSO said.

Deputy Diaz worked with PBSO since 2004, including ten years in its Motor Unit. The other two officers killed were Corporal Luis Paez and Deputy Sheriff Ralph "Butch" Waller, who were later pronounced dead at the hospital.

"We stand together, honoring their memory and supporting their families, friends, and colleagues through this time of immense sorrow. Let us remember their courage and commitment to duty as we pledge to continue their legacy of service. To serve and protect was their oath—honoring them is our duty," PBSO added.

Miami-Dade County Mayor Daniella Levine Cava also expressed her condolences following the initial crash last week.

"We are heartbroken to hear of the tragic loss of two Palm Beach Sheriff's deputies. On behalf of Miami-Dade, we send our deepest condolences to their families, loved ones, an @PBCountySheriff. Our prayers are with the deputy still fighting for his life," Cava said at the time.