Holly MatkinDavis, CA – University of California Davis Police Department (UCDPD) Officer Walter “Walt” Broussard died in the line of duty on July 4 due to complications of a heart attack.
The 62-year-old officer suffered the heart attack on June 10, according to a fundraising campaign established to help his family in the wake of their loss.
He remained hospitalized in the Bay area until he succumbed to complications of his medical condition on Monday.
“Our small department is numb,” UCDPD Captain Mark Brunet said in a statement released by the university two days later.
Capt. Brunet said Officer Broussard was “a good friend and officer.”
“Walt was a kind and honest man whose approach to life was genuine and sincere,” Capt. Brunet said. “His energy was contagious, and many were blessed to work around him.”
Officer Broussard served as a Yolo County Sheriff’s Office (YCSO) deputy for seven years prior to joining the UCDPD more than 24 years ago, the UCPD said in a press release on Thursday.
He worked in numerous capacities during his tenure at the sheriff’s office, including positions as a defensive tactics instructor, field training officer, hostage negotiator, and as K9 officer, among others.
“Walter will be remembered for being full of life, with a joke and a smile ready for all who were fortunate enough to cross paths with him,” the UCDPD said.
Officer Broussard leaves behind his wife, Mary Grace, as well as his children.
The fundraising effort established to help his family has raised more than $9,700 so far.
.@UCDavis mourns officer Walter Broussard, a 24-year veteran of @UCDavisPolice, who died July 4 of complications of a heart attack. Chief Joe Farrow will lead campus meetings July 7 and 8, remembering Broussard and offering support to community members. https://t.co/57CLKYlvtQ pic.twitter.com/qhRbzKXpKd
— Dateline UC Davis (@UCDavisDateline) July 6, 2022
UCDPD Officer Walt Broussard. Our newest motor officer on the Davis campus. Three wheels better than two! pic.twitter.com/yAYxlkL1JC
— UC Davis Police (@UCDavisPolice) May 16, 2016
Our thoughts and prayers are with the family of University of California Davis Police Department Officer Walter “Walt” Broussard, both blood and blue. Thank you for your service.
Rest easy, hero. We’ll hold the line from here.
Sandy Malone
