Filipino American police officer Austin Machitar, who lost his life in a high-speed pursuit last year, was honored in San Diego with a heartfelt tribute that included adding his name to the city’s Officer Memorial Wall and the renaming of a local park in his memory.
According to Inquirer.net, Machitar was remembered during a solemn ceremony on Wednesday for his courage and dedication to duty. A member of the San Diego Police Department for more than five years, Machitar died on August 26, 2023, when his patrol vehicle crashed while assisting in a pursuit in Clairemont Mesa.
In a symbolic act of remembrance, San Diego’s North Clairemont Community Park will be renamed Officer Austin Machitar Memorial Park. The proposal from Mayor Todd Gloria’s office received unanimous approval from the Parks and Recreation Board. The site was chosen due to its proximity to where Machitar served and his strong connection to the Clairemont neighborhood.
“I promised Officer Machitar’s family that I would never let our city forget the sacrifice he made in service to our community,” Gloria said. “Renaming this park in the neighborhood he served is a meaningful way for us to honor his memory and ensure future generations know the legacy he left.”
Police Chief Scott Wahl spoke emotionally about Machitar, praising his leadership and character. “Service, sacrifice and selflessness — those are the three words that best describe Austin,” Wahl said. “When you see somebody have to give the ultimate sacrifice in doing this job, it rips your heart apart.”
The event included a wreath-laying and 37 tolls of a bell, each one representing the lives of 35 men and 2 women who have died in the line of duty with the San Diego Police Department since 1913.
The San Diego Police Officers Association is funding the updates to the park, including signage, which are expected to be completed by summer.
