The Tustin Police Department invites the public to join them as they gather for their annual memorial of the only police officer killed in the line of duty in our city.

On December 6, 1972, Tustin Police Officer Waldron “Wally” Karp was on patrol when he answered a call to backup an Orange County Deputy Sheriff who was responding to a “man with a gun” call. As they approached the residence, they heard rustling in the bushes outside. They called for the suspect to come out. Instead, the suspect fired and hit Officer Karp and a sheriffs deputy.

On January 7, 1973, Officer Karp succumbed to his injuries and passed away. He was a Marine combat veteran and a family man who left behind a grieving wife and children.

For years, Karp’s photo hung in the lobby of the Tustin Police Department as the sole reminder of his sacrifice. But, in 2001, the work and planning of a group of employees led to the construction of a proper memorial for the only TPD officer to die in the line of duty. The memorial stands outside the department’s entrance as a reminder to all not just of Karp’s sacrifice, but the dedication of each police officer that enters the door of the Tustin Police Department.

The memorial ceremony will take place on the 42nd anniversary of Karp’s death, January 7, 2015 at 5;30 pm. The memorial is located in front of the police department, 300 Centennial Drive, Tustin CA.