SAN FRANCISCO—On Monday, December 22, the San Francisco Police Department honored and paid tribute to Officer Bryan Tuvera by dedicating the Taravel Police Station’s Community Room for any member of the public wishing to pay respects. There was a large turnout for the fallen officer on his eighth anniversary.
Albie Esparza, San Francisco Police spokesman officer, said, “It’s always a good turnout.” Esparza continued, “we have dedicated people that want to show their respects.”
On December 22, 2006, Officer Tuvera was shot by a suspect wanted on a felony warrant. The officers initiated a foot pursuit when the suspect attempted to flee. The suspect decided to enter the garage, and the officers moved in the same location to try to take the suspect into custody. The suspect decided to open fire, and shot Tuvera. A second officer returned fire and suspect was pronounced dead at the scene. Officer Tuvera was rushed to the San Francisco General Hospital. Tuvera succumbed to his injuries.
A memorial website was dedicated to Bryan Tuvera and it was last updated on April 15, 2011. The Bryan Tuvera Memorial Page has photos dedicated to the time spent in the police academy. Tuvera was ducking a few of the photos, but that was a talent he had, according to Dan Silver of SFPD.
On November 19, 2012, a memorial garden was dedicated in honor of Officer Tuvera at McCoppin Square Park. The public can visit the garden all year round during park hours. In the park, a plaque is dedicated to Officer Tuvera. The park is directly across the street from Taravel Station.
On December 23, 2013, Tuvera’s mother made a dedication to her son on Officer Down Memorial Site. The site is dedicated to remembering all of law enforcement’s heroes. She made reflections four times in the year of 2013 on the site.
She said, “It’s mom. It’s been 7 years since my heart was forever broken. I miss you daily and remember all the great times together. I was blessed to be your mom. Enjoy the holidays as you patrol the gates of heaven. Hope you and daddy are sharing lots of laughs together.”
