APRIL 2021 Blues Vol 37 No. 4

Boulder CO. Boulder

Boulder CO. Boulder Officer Killed in Mass Shooting By Saja Hindi BOULDER — Boulder Police Officer Eric Talley, who was killed while responding to the King Soopers shooting, was the father of seven, according to a statement released by his family. Talley was the first police officer to arrive at the scene of the active shooting Monday afternoon, Police Chief Maris Herold said. He was among 10 who were killed in the mass shooting. Talley had been with the Boulder Police Department since 2010. Talley was remembered as someone who cared for others — human and animal. In 2013, Talley was recognized by fellow officers for wading calf-deep into water to try and rescue a family of ducks that found themselves trapped in a drainage ditch, according to the Boulder Daily Camera. “He took his job as a police officer very seriously,” Homer Talley, Eric Talley’s father, said in the statement released to broadcast media. But more than anything, he said his son loved his family — the youngest child is 7 years old. On Twitter, a woman who identified herself as Talley’s younger sister posted about how heartbroken she was. “I cannot explain how beautiful he was and what a devastating loss this is to so many. Fly high my sweet brother. You always wanted to be a pilot (damn color blindness). Soar,” she wrote. “Talley treated all people as real human beings,” an attorney wrote on Facebook about his experience on a ride along with Talley. He said the experience while he was in law school changed the way he viewed police officers. “Officers catch a lot of hate, but Officer Talley was a good human being,” Edwin Hurwitz wrote. “My heart goes out to his family, friends, and colleagues. Talley was remembered for his love of family and his bravery at a public funeral in Lafayette, Colorado, on Tuesday March 30th-- one week after giving his life as the first police officer to arrive at the King Soopers store where a gunman killed him and nine others. “This is part of that bravery, in that, rightfully so, everyone in that store that fateful day ... was trying to get out,” Father Dan Nolan, parochial vicar at Our Lady of Mount Carmel in Littleton, told mourners, including the slain officer’s family and scores of law enforcement officers. “But some were trying to get in. It was all of you -- officers, lawmen, law enforcement. Going into harm’s way, going into the mouth of hell. And one did not return. So, this is for you. “That is a risk every day you put on your badges and take that risk. A day like any other day. Officer Eric Talley put on his badge, put on his uniform, put on his duty belt, not knowing that would be the last time.” Boulder Police Chief Maris Herold remembered that Talley became a cop at the age of 41 after a career as an IT professional. “Eric didn’t need to become a police officer,” she said, “but he felt a higher calling.” His bravery and quick action, the chief said, saved dozens of innocent lives a week ago. Sgt. Adrian Drelles, Talley’s supervisor, said the officer’s children are “a direct reflection” of their father. “His kids are living legacy of Eric’s impact on this world,” Drelles said. Talley’s children “gave him comfort” as he broke the news of his death to their mother, Drelles said. Colorado Gov. Jared Polis recalled Talley’s sacrifices, large and small. “Officer Talley gave his life just as he lived it: in the service of others,” the governor said. “Although it will be painful, it’s also a joy to remember Officer Talley for who he was. It’s a sign of a life well lived when you’re beloved like Officer Talley.” After the service, the flag that draped Talley’s casket was gently folded. A final ceremonial “end of watch” broadcast was made in honor of the officer. Get a copy of THE BLUES emailed to you FREE each and every month. Click HERE or scan the QR Code with your phone. 30 The BLUES POLICE MAGAZINE The BLUES POLICE MAGAZINE 31