Lincoln Police Chief Teresa Ewins issued a statement on LPD’s Facebook page Tuesday after a jury in Columbus found 19 year old Felipe Vazquez guilty in the shooting death of LPD investigator Mario Hererra.
First and most importantly to the Herrera family. I hope that this brings some closure and healing for you all. I know it has been a difficult year, especially leading up to the trial. Watching the strength of Carrie Herrera, her children and the family was inspiring. Our hearts will forever be with you. You will forever be part of the Lincoln Police Department family.
I don’t believe we should give this individual any more exposure, but instead let’s focus on our member that we lost and miss each day. His memory and what he gave to this department and the City of Lincoln we will forever be grateful. People continue to tell me stories of Mario. Going to a Hispanic center to speak to the public in Spanish to see if he could help or helping his fellow members. That is what we should remember today and moving forward. His selflessness and love for this family, profession, colleagues, and the city he served.”
The men and women of the Lincoln Police Department have endured for over a year the emotional ups and downs of preparing for this trial. Since getting to Lincoln, I have always said that I am most impressed by our members. The professionalism and how they supported each other through this time is commendable. I hope with the results of yesterday, you may be able to move forward to heal from your great loss.
Thank you, County Attorneys Pat Condon and Bruce Prenda, for your hard work in getting a conviction. Making sure that this individual can no longer harm anyone else. Thank you to the jury for making the right decision and finding him guilty on all counts. This is not an easy decision but, in this case, it is the right one.
To the community of Lincoln. Your ongoing support for our department through this time does not go unnoticed. Your well wishes have been heard and it truly matters. We would like to thank you as a department.