Holly MatkinProvidence, RI – Providence Police Department (PPD) Officer Juan Ramon Robles Rivera died unexpectedly on June 30.
The 53-year-old officer passed away at his home, according to his obituary.
His exact cause of death was not released.
“It is with a deep sense of sadness and regret that we announce the untimely death of Officer Juan Robles,” PPD Colonel Hugh Clements said in a press release on July 5. “Officer Robles was a decorated officer who proudly served this Department with distinction for 21 years. Juan was a wonderful man who loved helping others, and he did it all with that welcoming smile.”
The PPD said Officer Robles’ death was completely unexpected.
“Anyone who had the honor of knowing Juan was blessed,” the department said. “A genuine soul, who was kind, hardworking, and loyal to those he worked with and those he loved, he will be deeply missed.”
Officer Robles was born in Rio Pedras, Puerto Rico, and was a longtime resident of the Providence area, according to his obituary.
He served as a corrections officer and a Woonsocket Police Department reserve officer before he graduated from the Providence Police Academy in 2002.
Officer Robles served as a patrol officer and as a DEA narcotics detective during his time with the PPD.
He later worked as a Traffic Bureau officer.
“Juan Robles dedicated his life to serving his family, friends and community,” his obituary read. “He was very firm in his beliefs and values, putting God and family first always and never afraid to put the needs of others before himself. He will be immensely missed forevermore.”
The Providence Fraternal Order of Police (FOP) Lodge #3 also issued a statement in the wake of the longtime officer’s unexpected death.
“To say Juan was one of the nicest guys would be an understatement, Juan was genuine, loyal, hard-working, and kind hearted,” the FOP said. “Those of us who have had the pleasure of knowing Juan will surely miss him and the lighthearted personality that came with him…He was a special person with a big heart, someone who was always willing to do whatever was necessary for his brother or sister officer and the PPD.”
Officer Robles leaves behind his wife, Madeline, and his daughter, Yaitza.
He is also survived by his siblings.
A fundraising campaign established to help his family in the wake of their loss has raised more than $12,600 so far.
Officer Robles was laid to rest on July 7.
The members of the Barrington Police Department send our condolences to the family, friends, and coworkers of Providence Police Officer Juan Robles. Rest In Peace, Sir. pic.twitter.com/F1QgebRwvp
— Barrington Police Dept. (@barringtonripd) July 3, 2022
The men and women of the EPPD send our sincere condolences to the family, friends, and co-workers of @ProvidenceRIPD officer Juan Robles. Rest Easy Officer Robles 🙏 pic.twitter.com/GuVXD0YnBf
— East Providence Police Department (@EastProvPD) July 6, 2022
Our thoughts and prayers are with the family of Providence Police Department Officer Juan Ramon Robles Rivera, both blood and blue. Thank you for your service.
Rest easy, hero. We’ll hold the line from here.
Sandy Malone
