Police officer injured while escorting President Bush dies
US President George Bush sent his condolences to the family of a police officer who died less than a week after three police motorcycles crashed while escorting his motorcade in Honolulu.
Steve Favela, 30, and two other officers crashed as the president’s motorcade travelled across Hickam Air Force Base to meet troops for breakfast on Tuesday. Light rain had been falling, and some roads on the base were slick.
Favela, who suffered internal injuries and had been in critical condition at The Queen’s Medical Centre, died yesterday.
The other officers were treated at the medical centre and released.
Bush said in a statement that he and the first lady were “deeply saddened” by the death, and sent their condolences.
“Officer Favela risked his life every day to protect the people of his community,” Bush said. “In this time of great sadness, we give thanks for his life of service.”
Officers across the state will place black bands across their badges in honour of Favela, an eight-year veteran of the Honolulu Police Department and father of four, Police Capt. Frank Fujii said.
Members of the White House medical team – including an ambulance – were cut loose from the motorcade to help with the crash. Local ambulance and fire units also responded.
Bush had spent the night on the base on his way back from a trip to Indonesia and Vietnam.
