Phoenix Police Foundation holds fundraiser to honor fallen officer

PHOENIX — It has been nearly one year since Phoenix Police Officer Paul Rutherford was killed in the line of duty.

On March 21, 2019, Rutherford was struck and killed by a vehicle near the intersection of 75th Avenue and Indian School Road at 8:30 a.m.

As the anniversary of Rutherford’s death approaches, the Phoenix Police Foundation wants to honor his memory by sending his family and squad to Washington D.C. for National Police Week.

Rutherford’s name will be added to the Fallen Officer Memorial Wall during the week’s ceremonies.

On Saturday, a public fundraiser will be held from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at 102 E. Deer Valley Drive, Phoenix Police Department Air Support Unit.

Attendance is free.

The family-friendly event will feature special appearances from the Phoenix Police Department’s K9 Unit along with displays of the Bomb Squad and Air Support helicopter and airplane.

Officers will be also cooking barbecue for guests and more than 35 vendors are set to attendant.

“Police Week is the end of the road in terms of mourning,” Phoenix Police Foundation President Timothy Thomas told KTAR News 92.3 FM.

“All of the fallen officers from the year prior will be recognized.”

Last year, Rutherford was at the scene of a car accident when a separate incident involving an armed suspect required his presence at a nearby location.

While in pursuit of the suspect, Rutherford was struck by a car and killed as he crossed the street.

Officer Rutherford was a U.S. Air Force veteran and had served with the Phoenix Police Department for 23 years. He is survived by his wife and two children.

Those who would like to donate may do so online.

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