Funeral held for slain Downey police Officer Ricky Galvez

DOWNTOWN LOS ANGELES (KABC) -- Family members, friends and colleagues of slain Downey police Officer Ricardo "Ricky" Galvez remembered him Monday morning as a humble, hard-working man with an infectious smile.

Hundreds of law enforcement officers fought back tears and saluted Galvez's flag-draped coffin during a 9 a.m. service at the Cathedral of Our Lady Of the Angels in downtown Los Angeles.

Downey Police Chief Carl Charles praised Galvez's compassion and commitment to service. He recounted a recent incident in which Galvez pulled over an elderly woman with expired vehicle tags only to find out she was a new widow with a limited income.

"The very next day, he showed his true measure as a man of goodwill when he paid the registration for her," Charles said. "He was a humble man. He always gave whatever was asked of him and more."

Galvez was shot to death on Nov. 18 in what officials believe was a botched robbery attempt.

The 29-year-old was attacked while sitting in his car in civilian clothes next to the Downey Police Department. He had just returned from a K-9 training session. Three male suspects, including two teenagers, are facing murder and attempted second-degree robbery charges.

On Sunday, more than 1,000 people attended a vigil and rosary service at the Downey Civic Center to pay their respects to the slain officer.

Galvez was a five-year veteran with the Downey Police Department. He also served as a Marine in Iraq and Afghanistan. He is the first officer to be gunned down while on duty in Downey police history.

During Monday's funeral, family friend and fellow police Officer Andrew Lofquist quoted Galvez's favorite movie "End of Watch" as a tribute to the fallen officer.

"We stand watch together, a thin blue line protecting the prey from the predators, the good from the bad. We are the police. Until next time, my friend," Lofquist said.

L.A. County District Attorney Jackie Lacey called Galvez a "guardian of the community."

Hill Street between 1st Street and the 101 Freeway, Temple Street between Grand and Broadway avenues, and Grand Avenue between Temple and 1st streets were temporarily closed due to the funeral.

Following the funeral, a large police procession escorted Galvez's body to Rose Hills Memorial Park in Whittier. Galvez is survived by his mother, brother and two sisters.

The Downey Police Department and the Downey Federal Credit Union set up a memorial fund to assist Galvez's family.

Donations can be directed to Downey Police Cpl. Mike Pope, president of Downey Police Officer's Association, or to the Downey Federal Credit Union.

See more donation information below:

Mike Pope - President of DPOA

10911 Brookshire Avenue

Downey, CA 90241

562-904-2308

mpope@downeyca.org

Downey Federal Credit Union

Officer Ricardo Galvez Fund

8237 Third Street

Downey, CA 90241

562-862-8141

Monday - Friday: 9:00am - 5:30pm.

Saturday: 9:00am - 2:00pm

Non-Business Hours Drop Off (Box is located by the ATM)

Only cash or checks are being accepted at this time. Please make checks payable to "Officer Ricardo Galvez Fund."