2013 – Gilbert Cortez – Officer – California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation

Officer Gilbert Cortez and K9 Mattie were killed in an automobile accident Route 79, near San Felipe Road, in San Diego County.

Officer Cortez was part of a convoy of state corrections K9 officers who were en route to inspect the La Cima Fire Camp in a rural part of the county. His marked vehicle veered off the roadway and overturned, killing K9 Mattie. Officer Cortez was transported to a local fire station, but died before a helicopter could reach him.

Officer Cortez had served with the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation for 23 years and was assigned to the Southern Regional K-9 Unit. He is survived by his wife, two children, and parents.

Bio & Incident Details

Age: 46

Tour: 23 years

Badge # Not available

Cause: Automobile accident

Posted in End Of Watch.

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