ESU Officer Arthur Lopez [1982-2012]

On the morning of October 23rd, 2012 ESU Officer Lopez and his partner Officer Hudson spotted a vehicle running on its rims near the Cross Island Parkway and Northern Boulevard. This vehicle was suspected of leaving the scene of an accident. The officers followed the vehicle down the parkway until it got off at the Jamaica Avenue exit. Moments later, the vehicle stopped. Officer Lopez exited his ESU truck to question the driver. It was at this time suspect, Darrell Fuller, opened fire on the officer, hitting him. Officer Lopez, struck in the chest, immediately received aid from his partner. However, once transported to a hospital Officer Lopez passed away. The suspect went on to carjack and cold bloodedly kill another innocent person – a father of four. Mr. Fuller was caught later that evening after having been found shot twice. He has since been brought up on charges including two counts of first degree murder.

Aside from being a member of Nassau County’s Emergency Services Unit, Officer Arthur Lopez was a son, a brother, a friend to many, and an all-around great person. Anyone who knew him knew he was the type of person that would do anything for anyone. In eight years as a member of the Nassau County Police Department, Officer Lopez was recognized a half dozen times for acts in which he went above and beyond the call of duty. Because of him, even more people have been able to wake up and see another day. The positive impact he left behind on society is truly immeasurable.

In my years of doing on scene, emergency service photography I was fortunate enough to meet Officer Lopez on a few occasions. Officer Lopez was incredibly kind and outgoing. Just talking to him and seeing him in action you could get the sense he loved what he did. I think the photos posted here exemplify not only the variety of services he undertook but his passion for it. Twenty-nine years old is incredibly too soon to be taken away, and I know he will NOT BE FORGOTTEN. Rest in Peace Officer Arthur Lopez.