Lawrence police department announces death of 28-year-old officer
The Lawrence Police Department announced the death of one of its officers Wednesday.
Officer Zachary Garcia-Kerns, 28, died April 3 while he was off duty, Laura McCabe, communications manager for the department, said in a news release Wednesday.
“Our hearts go out to his family, friends, and all who love him,” McCabe said.
Garcia-Kerns has worked in the Lawrence community since October 2021, when he joined the University of Kansas Police Department, McCabe said. He joined the Lawrence Police Department in November 2023.
According to the release, Garcia-Kerns’ “gift of life donation will save the lives of as many as 75 others.”
The Douglas County Sheriff’s Office is conducting an investigation into Garcia-Kerns’ death, McCabe said. Investigators do not suspect foul play.
“We are focused on supporting Officer Garcia-Kerns’ family and everyone in the department right now,” McCabe said. “The family is requesting no other details be released.”
Any services for Garcia-Kerns will be shared by his family, McCabe said.
