Washington Officer Dies After On-Duty "Medical Episode"

Sgt. Joseph Deccio, a 15-year veteran of the Yakima PD, was rushed to a local hospital, but efforts to save the 38-year-old officer failed.

Staff Writer・Editorial

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August 4, 2021

1 min to read

A Yakima, WA, police officer died Tuesday after an on-duty medical event, the agency reports.

Sgt. Joseph Deccio, a 15-year veteran of the Yakima PD, was rushed to a local hospital, but efforts to save the 38-year-old officer failed.

The Yakima PD said on Facebook:

"Sergeant Deccio was a valued member of this community of Yakima and the Yakima Police Department. He served with honor in many positions during his time with the Yakima Police Department, to include: Patrol, Field Training Officer, SWAT-Sniper Team Leader, Field Training Coordinator, School Resource Officer Sergeant and Detective Sergeant. In addition to Sergeant Deccio’s service to our community, he honorably served as a member of the armed forces. He was a Corporal in the United States Army National Guard and deployed to Operation Iraqi Freedom-II as a 19- Delta Calvary Scout with the 81st Brigade HHC 1-161 Det-1 Scout Platoon.

"On behalf of all the honorable men and women of the Yakima Police Department, and Yakima Valley law enforcement agencies, we ask you for your patience and understanding while we grieve the loss of our family member."

Topics:Duty Deaths Medical Event Washington agencies Patrol

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