Thursday marked a somber anniversary in the City of Lincoln. It was three years ago that LPD investigator Mario Herrera died nearly two weeks after he was shot in the line of duty. Captain Todd Kocian was a friend and colleague of Herrera.
“Here at LPD we’re kind of a close knit community, so you make friendships really fast,” Kocian says. “Mario was a friend and a great guy to be around. Although it’s been three years, I think everybody here is still feeling the effects of his loss.”
Herrera was a 23-year veteran of the Lincoln Police Department and is survived by his wife and four children. In an effort to keep his memory alive, LPD and LFR teamed up with the Nebraska Community Blood Bank for the 12 Days of Hope Blood drive that concluded on Thursday. Herrera spent 12 days in the hospital after being wounded and received several blood donations and transfusions, which gave his family extra time to spend by his side.
“Our hope is the project keeps going for as many years as it can,” Kocian says. “Obviously, the Community Blood Bank is seeking donations throughout the year. There’s always a need for donated blood to help others.”
If you would like to help give the gift of life clock here to schedule an appointment.