Waltham Police Officer Killed in the Line of Duty Honored at Wake
Family, friends, and hundreds of police officers gathered in Waltham on Thursday to pay their respects at the wake of a fallen police officer. Paul Tracey, a longtime officer in Waltham, was tragically killed on December 6th while working a roadside detail when a pickup truck crashed into a utility worksite. The accident also claimed the life of National Grid worker Roderick Jackson and left several others injured.
A Sea of Blue Pays Tribute
The wake, held at Our Lady Comforter of the Afflicted church, saw law enforcement personnel from across the region assemble to honor Tracey. As his casket was brought into the church, officers paid their respects with a solemn walkthrough.
A Great Loss for the Community
Tracey, 58, had served the Waltham Police Department for nearly three decades. Described as a great person and always willing to help, his loss has deeply affected the community.
Moving Forward in the Face of Tragedy
Watertown Police Chief Justin Hanrahan spoke about the importance of moving forward after such a tragedy, emphasizing that law enforcement officers have a duty to continue doing their jobs even in the face of adversity.
A United Community
Father James DiPerri of Our Lady’s Parish expressed solidarity with the grieving community, stating that strength can be found in unity with God.
Remembering a Dedicated Officer
Amidst the heartbreak, community members fondly remembered Tracey as a dedicated police officer who had a passion for his profession and a deep love for his family.
Funeral Services and Investigation Updates
The wake for Tracey was scheduled to continue until at least 8 p.m., with his funeral set to take place at 10 a.m. on Friday. Thousands of police officers from across the country are expected to attend. Funeral services for Roderick Jackson, the National Grid worker killed in the same crash, are scheduled for Saturday in Cambridge.
Peter Simon, the individual accused in connection with the crash, has been arraigned on charges including manslaughter and is currently being held without bail pending a dangerousness hearing. The investigation into the events of that fateful day is ongoing, and Waltham police have urged community members with any additional information or video footage to come forward and contact investigators.
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