Orlando, FL - Kevin Valencia, an Orlando police officer who was shot by a former Volusia County man during an armed standoff in 2018, has passed away.
Back in June of 2018, Officer Valencia was shot and critically injured as he and other Orlando police officers responded to a domestic violence call that led to a nearly 20-hour standoff.
During that standoff, the suspect, Gary Wayne Lindsey Jr., barricaded himself and four children in an apartment. When officers arrived, Lindsey Jr. opened fire and shot at police, hitting Valencia. Lindsey later killed the four children before taking his own life.
In October 2020, Valencia retired from the Orlando Police Department and was awarded the Purple Heart for his heroic efforts that night.
"Officer Valencia risked his life for people he didn't even know—a risk that many in the law enforcement profession take without question," said the Orlando Police Department in a release.
Volusia Sheriff Mike Chitwood also took to Facebook to express his condolences for the fallen officer.
"He put himself in harm’s way in the hopes of saving others. Now his soul is at rest along with the 4 innocent children who were senselessly murdered that night," said Sheriff Chitwood. "A true hero who fought until his last breath is now at peace."
Sheriff Chitwood added that all deputies will wear mourning bands over their badges and flags at every Volusia Sheriff installation will be flown at half staff for five days in honor of Officer Valencia.
