Officer Keith Boyer

Whittier Police Officer Keith Boyer was murdered on February 20, 2017, while investigating a traffic collision. Unbeknownst to responding officers, the vehicle involved in the crash had been stolen and was being driven by a gang member who had been released from prison and had committed another murder just hours earlier.

As Officer Boyer and his partner contacted the suspect, Officer Boyer attempted to conduct a pat-down search. The suspect suddenly drew a handgun from his waistband and opened fire at close range. Officer Boyer was fatally wounded, and another officer was seriously injured. Despite being shot, the officers returned fire and wounded the suspect before he was taken into custody.

Officer Boyer was transported to a local hospital, where he succumbed to his injuries. A 27-year veteran of the Whittier Police Department, Boyer was widely respected by his colleagues and was preparing to retire after nearly three decades of service. He is survived by his three adult children, mother, stepfather, fellow officers, and countless friends.

The killer was convicted of multiple crimes, including the murders of Officer Boyer and another victim earlier that day, and was sentenced to Life Without the Possibility of Parole.