Fernando Arroyos, LAPD officer killed while house-hunting with girlfriend, honored at somber funeral
LOS ANGELES (KABC) -- A somber funeral service was held Wednesday morning for Officer Fernando Arroyos of the Los Angeles Police Department, who was fatally shot during an off-duty confrontation in South L.A. last month.
The outdoor service, held at Forest Lawn's Hall of Liberty Mosaic Deck, was attended by family members, city leaders and hundreds of fellow law enforcement officers. It was not open to the public but media coverage was allowed.
"Our deepest condolences, our heartfelt sorrow," LAPD Chief Michel Moore said, addressing Arroyos' family members during a eulogy. "We join you in this grievous moment. Thank you for the privilege to stand here today. I know my words will be inadequate, but I will try to relay to you the love and support of the entire Los Angeles Police Department."
Arroyos, 27, was gunned down during a robbery at 9:15 p.m. on Jan. 10 in the 8700 block of Beach Street in South Los Angeles. Authorities said Arroyos was targeted while he was house-hunting with his girlfriend.
"We've lost and angel in this city of angels," Mayor Eric Garcetti said. "We've lost somebody whose chapter is now written here -- and what a chapter it was. The chief went through this incredible story of what we dream we can produce as a city.
LAPD Chief Moore: LAPD will cover funeral expenses for off-duty officer killed during robbery
"It doesn't matter your zip code, it doesn't matter where your parents come from, it doesn't matter how much money you have in your pocket," the mayor said. "If you seek to serve, you can step up and be as famous as anybody who is on that Hollywood Walk of Fame."
Arroyos is survived by his mother, father, girlfriend, grandfather and stepfather.
On Jan. 27, a federal grand jury returned an indictment against three alleged gang members and one associate for the crime. The three men and the 18-year-old girlfriend of one defendant were charged with violating a federal racketeering statute.
Arroyos graduated with honors from UC Berkeley. His mother described her son as someone who simply wanted to serve his community.
"I want to remember my son as a hero, for his work," Claudia Karin said tearfully in Spanish during a memorial held shortly after Arroyos' death. "As a son, he was the best. As a grandson, he was the best. And, as I said, I wish all the best for my son."
City News Service contributed to this report.
