Obit

Slug: Obituary
Kimya Kavehkar
2/26/09
As pictures of a handsome, beaming, playful Alex Del Rio flashed on the screens at Calvary Chapel in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, Miriam Fernandez became overwhelmed with emotion as she spoke over her son’s casket draped in the American flag. The small silver cross around her neck shone as the audience listened attentively.
“You made a difference in so many lives,” Fernandez said. “I don’t say goodbye, but I say until we meet again in heaven.”
Alex Del Rio, a Hollywood police officer, aged 31, died on Nov. 22, 2008 when he lost control and slammed the rear of his Ford Victoria cruiser into a tree. The car burst into flames and Del Rio died at the scene. The accident happened just before 8:45pm on Saturday night in the 7000 block of Sheridan St.
He had been an officer for the Hollywood police for nine years, it was a position he dreamed of having as a little boy. This was the first time in 26 years that a Hollywood police officer died while on duty.
Hundreds of friends, family members, and fellow officers attended the funeral on Nov. 26, 2008, including his uncle and fellow officer, Officer Saul Fernandez.
“If Alex were here today, he would give you a big hug and would say ‘I love you,’” Officer Fernandez said through tears, letting his shoulders go limp.
As Miriam Fernandez continued to speak, three Hollywood police officers gathered around her to give comfort and support. Such is the norm when two families meet in unifying circumstances.
“When Alex became a part of the Holly wood police department family, you became a part of our family,” Chief Chadwick E. Wagner said as his voice wavered. “We can’t take Alex’s place, but we’ll always be here for you, whatever you need, that I promise.”
The event was indeed like a family gathering. Even though everyone was not blood-related, the feeling was somber, yet casual with an air of hope and closeness. It was the perfect way to honor Del Rio, who had such positivity for the future, and love for his loved ones and peers.
“I can’t find anyone who could ever say a negative thing about Alex, and more importantly, you would never hear Alex say a bad thing about anyone or anything,” Wagner said. “He was a positive person.”
Officer Fernandez sent out a closing message radiating with this aforementioned positivity and love that was the essence of Del Rio.
“Please in remembrance of Alex today, hug each other no matter how old, young, or tough you are, and say ‘I love you mom, dad or friend,’ that would bring a smile to Alex and to your hearts,” Officer Fernandez said with a solemn smile. “God bless you all.”
Police are continuing to investigate the crash and are looking for witnesses. Anyone who saw the accident or has information should call Hollywood police at 954-967-4357.