PALM BEACH COUNTY, Fla. – The Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office announced that Deputy Ignacio “Dan” Diaz died Monday afternoon, becoming the third fatality among motorcycle deputies involved in last Thursday’s tragic crash near Loxahatchee.
Diaz, who fought for his life for days, succumbed to his injuries Monday afternoon, according to PBSO officials.
The crash occurred on Southern Boulevard, west of Seminole Pratt Whitney Road, near Lion Country Safari. Deputies Luis Paez, Butch Waller, and Diaz were struck by a vehicle while assisting with a mechanical issue on a motorcycle.
6 p.m. report:
A woman driving nearby overcompensated while switching lanes and struck all three deputies causing them to “go airborne in different directions,” PBSO Sheriff Ric Bradshaw confirmed at a news conference on the day of the crash.
Authorities said Paez and Waller were pronounced dead shortly after the crash. Diaz underwent multiple surgeries but ultimately lost his battle just before 12:45 p.m. Monday.
Attorney Edward Kone, who worked alongside the trio, described them as “salt-of-the-earth public servants” in an interview with Local 10 News last week.
PBSO officials said Paez was also known for his passion for photography and leadership as president of the Florida Professional Photographers.
He also had plans to turn his craft into a business after retirement. Waller, a respected 18-year veteran, was praised for his character and dependability.
Diaz’s passing deepens the sense of loss among law enforcement and the community. Vigils were held on Friday to honor Paez and Waller.
There was also solemn scene Monday outside Terminal One at Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport as an honor guard escorted the U.S. Honor Flag.
The flag was first flown at Ground Zero, during the 9-11 recovery efforts. Since then, it’s traveled across the country, paying tribute to fallen service-members, firefighters, first responders and law enforcement.
The flag was transferred to troopers, who took it to Palm Beach County in honor of those three fallen deputies.
The Florida Highway Patrol continues to investigate the crash. While no charges have been filed, officials are reviewing the case.
The Palm Beach County Police Benevolent Association has set up a fund to assist the deputies’ families. Click here for more information.