Dates: 1983 – August 7, 2022
The Tragedy:
Deputy Sheriff Andrew Peery tragically lost his life while responding to a report of gunfire on August 7, 2022. Accompanied by a fellow deputy and an officer from the Fountain Police Department, Deputy Peery arrived at the scene, only to be met with immediate gunfire. Despite being rushed to UCHealth Memorial Hospital, Deputy Peery succumbed to his injuries a few hours later.
Deputy Peery, a veteran of the United States Army Operation Iraq Freedom War, had faithfully served the El Paso County Sheriff’s Office for six years, where he was also a dedicated member of the SWAT Team. He leaves behind his wife and two children.
More info:
gazette.com : 3 confirmed dead after fatal shooting
The Service:
Deputy Sheriff Andrew Peery was honored in a service on August 15, 2022, following a processional. Law enforcement from as far as California, New York, and Alaska joined Peery’s family and friends to pay their respects.
Three of Peery’s fellow SWAT team members spoke about his life and his dedication to his job. David Fisher recalled a few instanced where, “He knowingly put himself in harm’s way in the hope that others may live.”
Ryan Gonzales shared how Peery was always checking on his coworkers and supporting them. Gonzales shared a story of how while at a track meet for their children, he missed his daughter’s race, but Peery was there cheering her on as if she was his own. Gonzalez concluded with promising to show the same fatherly support to Peery’s children for years to come, however he could.
El Paso County Sheriff, Bill Elder, also spoke, “We honor Andrew today for his friendship, his commitment, and his service.” He finished by saying, “This county, this state, this country, lost a good man. I can think of no truer definition of a hero.”
More info:
gazette.com : Deputy Andrew Peery remembered for his competitive, selfless nature at funeral
The Justice:
The suspect was later identified as 33-year-old John Paz. Upon the arrival of more law enforcement, they found a woman deceased in the front yard of the residence. She was later identified as Alexandra Paz. Alexandra and John had been going through divorce proceedings leading up to the incident. John Paz was found deceased inside the house by a self-inflicted wound.
More info:
gazette : Neighbors shaken by shooting
Delivery:
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