Holly MatkinCranston, RI – Cranston Police Department (CPD) Detective William “Bill” Palmer died unexpectedly while off-duty on Monday.
Det. Palmer, 53, was a 28-year veteran of the CPD, and he also worked as a New England Institute of Technology Criminal Justice Program instructor, according to his obituary.
“It is with profound sadness that Cranston Police Department mourns the tragic and sudden loss of Detective William Palmer, Badge #324,” the CPD said in a Facebook post on Wednesday night. “We will forever miss his loyalty, dedication to duty and most of all his friendship. His passing has created a tremendous void within our department and he will be greatly missed.”
CPD Major Todd Patalano said that Det. Palmer was a highly respected member of the force, both within the department and throughout the surrounding area, the Cranston Herald reported.
“He was considered a criminalistics expert and was well known throughout the state,” Maj. Patalano said. “[He] has worked on some of the most delicate assignments and investigations this department has had.”
“He was one of the finest police officers that ever served here, and the finest family man as well,” he added. “We’re all shocked by his loss… He is without a doubt a huge part of this department that will be missed forever and could never be replaced.”
Det. Palmer leaves behind his wife, Mary Ann, as well as his children, Billy, Jenna, and Joseph, according to his obituary.
He is also survived by his siblings, in-laws, nieces, nephews, and his beloved dog, Sedona.
“We are praying for the Palmer family during this extremely difficult time,” the CPD said. “While Detective Palmer may be lost, he will never be forgotten. May he forever Rest In Peace.”
Det. Palmer will be laid to rest on March 2.
Our thoughts and prayers are with the family of Cranston Police Department Detective William “Bill” Palmer, both blood and blue. Thank you for your service.
Rest easy, hero. We’ll hold the line from here.