San Bernardino Officer Bryce Hanes remembered for his passion, faith and family values

ByLeticia Juarez and Laura Montenegro KABC logo
Friday, November 13, 2015
Officer Hanes remembered for his passion, faith and family values
Law enforcement from all across the state gathered to pay their respects to San Bernardino police officer Bryce Hanes.

SAN BERNARDINO, Calif. (KABC) -- A San Bernardino police officer and married father of three, who was struck and killed by an alleged DUI driver last week, was remembered on Thursday for his humor, passion and family values.

Family, friends and hundreds of fellow law enforcement officers gathered at the National Orange Show Events Center in San Bernardino to honor Officer Bryce Hanes.

The 40-year-old was allegedly struck and killed by Archie Green III near Etiwanda Avenue and Fourth Street in Ontario on Nov. 5.

Authorities say Green ran a red light and crashed into Hanes' squad car. His blood alcohol level was almost twice the legal limit, according to the San Bernardino County District Attorney's Office. He was arraigned Tuesday on gross vehicular manslaughter and DUI felony charges.

A devout Mormon, Hanes spent two years on a mission to Chile, learning to speak Spanish. His colleagues say it made an impression out on the street.

"When Bryce was on patrol dealing with a citizen that did not speak English, it was great to see their reaction when he not only understood what they were saying but could converse with them perfectly," said fellow officer Devon Reid.

Reid said Hanes enjoyed patrolling the streets of San Bernardino, the city he grew up in.

"He was a great beat partner and always there to help out and lend his knowledge. He was proud to be a 'street cop,'" Reid said.

State Attorney General Kamala Harris also spoke at the public memorial service, thanking Hanes' wife, Alice, and three young children, Abigail, Katie and Benjamin.

"On behalf of the entire California Department of Justice, I offer you our thoughts and our prayers and condolences," Harris said.

She said the San Bernardino police veteran "dedicated 12 years of his life to the most noble of professions."

"He did what most people would not have the courage to do. He risked and ultimately he gave his life to keep us safe. His ultimate sacrifice is a somber reminder that safety comes at a price, and we shall forever be grateful for his service," Harris said.

She then took the time to particularly thank Hanes' wife, Alice.

"I offer you gratitude for the love and support you gave your husband every day when he put on that badge and left your home to serve his community and his great state," Harris said.

The service was followed by a procession to Hillside Memorial Park in Redlands.

Two different memorial funds have been set up by the Emerald Society and the San Bernardino Police Officers Association to assist Hanes' family.