Puerto Rico Department of Natural and Environmental Resources, Puerto Rico
End of Watch Tuesday, March 23, 2010
Add to My HeroesFélix Rodríguez-Gomez
Rangers Félix Rodríguez and Kenneth Betancourt were shot and killed while confronting three men who had jumped a fence at the agency's headquarters building in San Juan at approximately 1:00 am.
Both rangers had been assigned to a security detail at the headquarters. As they confronted the trespassers, the men opened fire on the rangers, who were able to return fire. Ranger Betancourt and Ranger Rodríguez both suffered fatal wounds during the shootout. One of the suspects was also wounded.
The suspects then stole the patrol car and gun from one of the fallen rangers and fled. All three were arrested a short time later after police received a telephone tip from a witness.
Ranger Rodriguez had served with the agency for nearly six years and was survived by his wife and two children.
Bio
- Age 30
- Tour 5 years, 9 months
- Badge 2-547
Incident Details
- Cause Gunfire
- Weapon Gun; Unknown type
- Offender Apprehended
Most Recent Reflection
View all 99 ReflectionsLord Jesus, as we watch America’s Peace Officers succumb to the wicked and evil in this world, Shot and Killed in the Line-of-Duty, it becomes difficult for us to pick up and move forward. Our communities are on the brink of exploding with tension. In light of the peace officers who are no longer with us, I pray for endurance for our communities and law enforcement agencies. Carry us through this time of strife, that through our struggles, our bonds may grow even more unbreakable. In Your mighty and holy name, I pray. Amen.
Holy Scriptures on Law Enforcement’s Mission:
“For the policeman [peace officer] does not frighten people who are doing right; but those doing evil will always fear him. So if you don’t want to be afraid, keep the laws and you will get along well. The policeman [peace officer] is sent by God to help you. But if you are doing something wrong, of course you should be afraid, for he [the peace officer] will have you punished. He [the peace officer] is sent by God for that very purpose. Obey the laws, then, for two reasons: first, to keep from being punished, and second, just because you know you should.” [Romans 13:3-5 TLB]
[Jesus Said,] “Greater love has no one than this, that someone lay down his life for his friends.” [John 15:13 ESV]
And he [Jesus] said to him, “Truly, I say to you, today you will be with me in paradise.” [Luke 23:43 ESV]
“Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called sons [children] of God.” [Matthew 5:9 ESV]
“And I heard the voice of the Lord saying, “Whom shall I send, and who will go for us?” Then I said, “Here am I! Send me.” [Isaiah 6:8 ESV]
Chaplain Steven R. Closs, DDiv, MSBS, NCCA, FCPO-USA
Ordained Christian Global Outreach Minister No. 36526
The Badge 183 Peacemakers Prayer Ministry
January 11, 2024
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