Holly MatkinLongview, TX – Longview Police Department (LPD) Officer Larry Solomon died on Jan. 7 after a battle against angiosarcoma.
The 30-year-old officer was surrounded by his family members when he passed away at his home, the City of Longview said in a press release on Jan. 9.
Officer Solomon “remained strong and fought to the very end” during his “courageous but quick battle with cancer,” according to his obituary.
The eight-year veteran of the LPD was also a U.S. Marine Corps veteran, the city noted.
He deployed to Afghanistan in both 2011 and 2013, and was awarded the Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal and a Good Conduct Medal during his military career, according to his obituary.
Officer Solomon knew he wanted to become a law enforcement officer ever since he was in high school.
He joined the LPD in 2015, and began serving as a K9 handler alongside his partner, K9 Jiro, in October of 2020.
Officer Solomon was awarded the LPD’s Lifesaving Award in 2017, after he heroically rescued a driver who was trapped inside a burning vehicle at the scene of a crash.
He was named the LPD’s Rookie of the Year that same year, and was chosen as Officer of the Month in January of 2018.
“At the Department, Larry was known for his contagiously calm demeanor,” his obituary read. “He was loved and respected by all of his fellow officers. The true embodiment of a quiet professional, Larry had a work ethic that rivaled any of his fellow officers.”
Officer Solomon leaves behind his wife of nine years, Shawna, as well as their children, seven-year-old Kameron and one-year-old Jace.
He also leaves behind his father, siblings, and grandmothers.
“The Longview Police Department would like to thank everyone for the abundance of prayers and support for the Solomon family during his fight,” the city said. “We ask for continued prayers for the Solomon family and the Longview Police Department family during this time. We will remain Solomon Strong!”
Officer Solomon was laid to rest on Jan. 13.
Our thoughts and prayers are with the family of Longview Police Department Officer Larry Solomon, both blood and blue. Thank you for your service.
Rest easy, hero. We’ll hold the line from here.
