Riverside Officer Jeff Taylor Passes Away

Riverside officer, Jeff Taylor passed away this morning after sustaining injuries due to lightening strike while assisting rescue efforts in Joplin, Missouri following the May 23 tornado.

Taylor was part of a 12-member team of officers police officers, firefighters and public works staff members who responded to the disaster.

According to the Riverside Police department, Taylor was the first officer to die in the line of duty and the first emergency response worker to pass away due to the Joplin tornado. He was 31 years old.

“We are heartbroken,” Chief Mills said. “Our department, our community and law enforcement as a whole have lost a dedicated professional doing what he did best – helping those who were in need. The fragility of life gives way to the enduring spirit Jeff showed to us all. Our department will never be the same.”

Kathy Rose, Mayor of Riverside, said: “We are saddened by the loss of our officer and loyal public servant. He died upholding a tradition of our community and many communities like ours to serve and protect, and to help neighbors in need. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends.”

Condolences may be sent to:

Taylor Family
City of Riverside Police Department
2990 NW Vivion Road
Riverside, MO 64150.

Monetary donations for the family will assist with funeral expenses:

Taylor Benefit Account
K.C. Police Credit Union
2800 East 14th Street
Kansas City, MO 64127
www.kcpcu.org