MIAMI - Miami-Dade County Mayor Daniella Levine Cava offered her condolences on Thursday after two Palm Beach County Sheriff's deputies were killed and another was left fighting for his life during a recent traffic incident.
"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.
According to reports, the incident occurred on State Road 80 in Loxahatchee in western Palm Beach County. The crash transpired 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 all three deputies to go airborne in different directions.
Two of the officers, identified as Corporal Luis Paez and Deputy Sheriff Ralph "Butch" Waller, were later pronounced dead at the hospital. A third officer, Deputy Ignacio “Dan” Diaz, remained in critical but stable condition in the ICU.
"It is with profound sadness that we share the loss of two of our own: Corporal Luis Paez & Deputy Sheriff Ralph “Butch” Waller," the Palm Beach County Sheriff's Office said. "Both were tragically struck and killed by a driver on Southern Blvd while conducting traffic enforcement."
Specifically, Waller served for over 18 years in the department's Motor Unit. He previously worked for the Royal Palm Beach Police Department before it merged with PBSO in 2008.
A 36-year veteran in law enforcement, Paez joined PBSO in January 1988 as a Corrections Deputy. He later worked in Road Patrol and as a Motor Deputy for more than 20 years.
The surviving officer, Diaz, has worked with PBSO since 2004, including ten years in its Motor Unit.
"Deputy Ignacio “Dan” Diaz was also critically injured in the crash and is currently fighting for his life. Our hearts are heavy as we mourn the loss of our brothers, honor their memory, and support their families during this devastating time. Please keep Deputy Diaz in your prayers as he continues to fight. To serve and protect was their oath; to honor them is our duty," PBSO added.
