Farewell Officers Vargas and Villegas
San Miguel Police Officers José Villegas and Valentín Vargas were shot to death yesterday by armed civilians on Avenida Independencia. Today, friends, family, and colleagues gathered at the C4 Center for a farewell.
Flowers crowns decorated the space, and photos of the officers were displayed. Two cars transported the coffins and then placed them on the designated area. Flags were draped over their coffins, and later were given to the families.
After the ceremony, Valentin’s body was taken to his wake in the community of Salitrillo, and Villegas’ to Manantiales.
“Today is a very sad day in the history of men. But the courage and values of Valentìn Vargas should remain among us. We are at risk but we have to do our job and that is part of our cooperation. It is a sad day. All those who knew you know that you always gave us strength to continue with our lives. We will always remember you,” an official read. Officer Valentin Vargas served nine years.
A second official said, “José Reyes was more than a friend, he was part of our family. Your love and enthusiasm will remain in our hearts because you earn it. We will remember you with love and with a smile on your face as we know you wanted it to be.” Officer José Reyes served eight years.
“We mourn the pain of these families; it is our pain too. We share the indignation of Sanmiguelenses. We will work harder to bring peace to SMA. They were good friends, brilliant police officers, good friends and colleagues. They wanted safety. We feel pain, but we will face any situation as they did yesterday. We are committed to stand with Sanmiguelenses, ” said General Hidalgo Eddi.
“These are hard times for everybody. They were extraordinary police officers. All the members of the Security Department have our support, loyalty and commitment. I share the pain and indignation of Sanmiguelenses for this terrible crime. We will coordinate with the federation and state to reestablish peace and tranquility to families. Today is the day when we need to define which stand we are going to take: will we support crime or will we defend the Mexican society with honor?” said Mayor Luis Alberto Villarreal.
The families will receive insurance as well as a scholarship for their children.
