Tampa Police Officers David Curtis Family and Jeff Kocab Family, Tampa Mayor Bob Buckhorn, former Tampa Mayor Pam Iorio, Tampa Police Chief Jane Castor and 400 fellow officers, friends and citizens shared the new memorial police walkway entrance to Tampa Police Dept. District 3 Headquarters named Hallway of Heroes. The light rain didn’t damper the somber occasion.

   The names and badges of the 2 murdered police officers are etched in glass and backlit by blue LED in the entryway. It was exactly 1 year ago, June 29th, Tampa went through a manhunt and devastating night as the officers were working and did a routine traffic stop in East Tampa. They were gunned down when trying to make an arrest by accused shooter and passenger, Dontae Morris.

   “I just wish I can turn the clock back.” said tearing Pam Iorio told the crowd and gave hugs to the 2 officers wives and family members.

   A lot of businesses, organizations including GaYBOR District Coalition and individuals stood up to make this project happen. Donated time, energy and products came from the local community.  A new memorial reflection garden is also in the works for the Distr. 3 police headquarters. 

   Another community arousing effort by the GaYBOR District Coalition and Hampton Inn & Suites. Steven Nunez, mgr and Carrie West, President of GaYBOR District with the full GaYBOR Board handed the $2000  Hi Tech police equipped TREK Bicycle over to the Tampa Police Dept.and Tampa Mayor Bob Buckhorn. The mayor greeted with enthusiasm the efforts Tampa communities including GaYBOR for all the efforts in helping out the city in this national recession. The bicycle is going to be used by our community officers Sean Mahabir and Kevin Krupa for a broad based effort to help assist visiting tourists and riding through the historic cities residential alleys for any suspicious activity.