Off-Duty Austin Police Detective Killed in Motorcycle Crash

News Summary

Detective Israel Garcia of the Austin Police Department was tragically killed in a motorcycle crash in San Marcos, Texas. The accident, involving only Garcia, occurred early Saturday morning. After being transported to a local hospital, he was pronounced dead. The community mourns his loss, with the Austin Police Association organizing support for his family during this difficult time.

San Marcos, Texas – Off-Duty Austin Police Detective Killed in Motorcycle Crash

Detective Israel Garcia, an off-duty officer with the Austin Police Department (APD), was tragically killed in a motorcycle accident early Saturday morning in San Marcos, Texas. The incident occurred around 5:30 a.m. at the intersection of FM 32 and FM 3424 in Comal County.

According to the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS), Garcia was the sole party involved in the crash, with no other vehicles contributing to the accident. Following the collision, he was transported to a local hospital in San Marcos but was pronounced dead shortly after arrival.

Details of the Incident

The circumstances surrounding the crash remain under investigation by the Texas DPS. As of now, additional information regarding the events leading up to the accident has not been released to the public.

Community Response

Austin Police Chief Lisa Davis notified department staff of Detective Garcia’s passing through an internal email, expressing heartfelt condolences and urging the department to keep his family and close friends, including his brother-in-law who serves with the Austin Fire Department, in their thoughts and prayers. In recognition of the emotional toll this incident has on the department, the Austin Police Department has made its Peer Support and Wellness Team available to officers needing assistance.

Garcia had been a dedicated member of the APD since 2009, originally joining the force as part of the Austin Public Safety and Emergency Management consolidation. Recently, he had taken on a role with the downtown rapid response team, where he played a vital part in community protection and support.

Support for Garcia’s Family

The Austin Police Association expressed deep sorrow over Detective Garcia’s untimely death. In an effort to support his family during this difficult time, the association has called for donations to be directed to the Austin Police Benevolent Foundation. This initiative aims to provide financial support to those affected by the loss of Garcia.

Background on Detective Israel Garcia

Throughout his tenure with the Austin Police Department, Garcia was known for his commitment and service to the community. His recent assignment on the downtown rapid response team underscored his dedication to maintaining public safety in one of the city’s most bustling areas. Friends, colleagues, and community members remember him as a passionate officer who deeply cared for the welfare of those he served.

This tragic accident serves as a somber reminder of the risks faced by law enforcement officers, even when they are off duty. The community stands in solidarity with the APD as they mourn the loss of Detective Israel Garcia.

As the investigation by the Texas Department of Public Safety continues, further information is anticipated to shed light on the circumstances surrounding this regrettable incident.

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HERE Resources

Additional Resources

• CBS Austin: APD Detective Dies in Off-Duty Motorcycle Crash in San Marcos
• Wikipedia: San Marcos, Texas
• KVUE: Austin Officer Israel Garcia Motorcycle Crash
• Google Search: Detective Israel Garcia
• FOX 7 Austin: Austin Police Detective Killed Off-Duty Motorcycle Crash
• Google Scholar: Off-duty police officer safety
• KXAN: APD Detective Dies Following Off-Duty Motorcycle Crash in San Marcos
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Texas Department of Public Safety
• Austin American-Statesman: Austin Police Officer Killed in Off-Duty Motorcycle Crash
• Google News: Austin Police Department