MIAMI – It was a long and somber night at Miami police headquarters Tuesday as Officer Jorge Sanchez -- a 21-year veteran -- was killed in a motorcycle crash on his way to work.
The crash happened at Southwest 137th Avenue and Eighth Street.
"He wore the uniform proudly, and he served this department with dignity, strength and professionalism," Chief Rudy Llanes said during a news conference.
Sanchez was rushed to Kendall Regional Medical Center, but he didn't survive.
Four motormen escorted the rescue unit carrying his body to the medical examiner's office.
Sanchez is survived by his mother Maria, his ex-wife, his fiancée, Evelyn, his daughter, Elizabeth, his son, Jorge, and his son, Eric, who is also a Miami police officer.
The 53-year-old was close to retirement, and Llanes knew him personally.
"Jorge and I worked together about 20 years ago," he said. "He was a new police officer, and Jorge was a consummate professional."
The Florida Highway Patrol is investigating the incident.
"You go out there and never know when you're going to come home," Trooper Joe Sanchez said. "That's why you kiss your family, your children, and you do the best you can ... but at the end of the day, your mission is to come home."