AUSTIN, Texas — An Austin Police Department officer has died following a crash involving a tractor-trailer Wednesday, July 28.
Senior Officer Andy Traylor died Saturday evening after being in critical condition at Dell Seton Hospital following the incident.
"He was surrounded by his APD family, obviously by his family, and we're all hurting right now," shared Interim Police Chief Joseph Chacon.
"APD is a family," an APD spokesperson said. "When someone is seriously injured like this, it affects each and every one of us."
"Andy was an incredible officer, husband, father and friend and he will be missed by all of us," said Chacon.
APD said the crash took place around 2 a.m. Wednesday morning on FM 969 near Decker Lane. A tractor-trailer was making a U-turn when the officer crashed into it. He was responding to an urgent call.
Officer Traylor leaves behind a wife and five children, ranging in age from two to 15. Austin Cops 4 Charities and the Austin Police Department are working to support the Traylor family during this difficult time.
On Monday, Aug. 2, Austin Cops 4 Charities announced it had already raised more than $55,000 for the Traylor family. The organization is accepting donations for the family on its website, AustinC4C.com.
A procession honoring Officer Traylor was held on Sunday, Aug. 1, at 9 a.m. The procession departed from the loading dock on the north side of Dell Seton in the 1600 block of Red River St. Officers from across the area came out to escort his body to the Travis County Medical Examiner's Office.
"He had a heart for service and he put his life on the line for this community, and ultimately made the ultimate sacrifice," said Chacon, following the procession. "We honor him today and we will honor him tomorrow and we will honor him always going forward."
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