Agencies show support for OPD, sheriff's office after death of officer, deputy

ORANGE COUNTY, Fla. — Law enforcement agencies across Central Florida are showing support for the Orlando Police Department and the Orange County Sheriff’s Office after members from both agencies died Monday.

“I regret to inform our community that one of heroes in blue was shot and killed in the line of duty this morning. It is with a very heavy heart on Law Enforcement Appreciation Day, that I announce that Master Sgt. Debra Clayton, a 17-year veteran of OPD, lost her life today at approximate 0740 hours,” said Orlando police Chief John Mina.

“She is someone I know very well. In fact, I hired her when I was the OPD chief,” said Orange County Sheriff Jerry Demings. “My heart goes out to her family, the OPD, and the city of Orlando as we deal with these circumstances.”

Deputy Norm Lewis was hit and killed by a van while working a perimeter in the search for the suspected gunman.

Related Story: ‘I was holding his hand,‘ witness says about Orange County deputy killed in crash

“He was traveling on his motorcycle as a result of these broad efforts that we have underway. A motorist turned in front of him based on eyewitness testimony. He had a green light and he was not traveling at any inordinate rate of speed,” said Demings.

Rep. Val Demings also asked for a moment of silence on the House floor.

As news of the deaths unfolded Monday, multiple law enforcement and government agencies contacted the police department and the sheriff’s office to offer help and support

Brevard County Sheriff Wyane Ivey released the following statement: 

"As most of you are aware, earlier today Master Sergeant Debra Clayton, a 17-year veteran with the Orlando Police Department was shot and killed in the line of duty while attempting to apprehend a violent fugitive in Orlando, Florida.  Additionally, a Motor Deputy with the Orange County Sheriff’s Office was killed in a vehicle crash while supporting efforts to search for the suspect.  Anytime we lose a member of our law enforcement family, it takes a piece of each of us who share this profession.  In an effort to show support for our brothers and sisters from the Orlando Police Department and the Orange County Sheriff's Office I am requesting that black mourning bands be worn by our uniform personnel until the conclusion of funeral services for both Officers.

While information regarding funeral arrangements will be released when they become available, I ask that you keep the Orange County Sheriff's Office, the Orlando Police Department, and the families of our fallen heroes in your thoughts and prayers.  These two officers made the ultimate sacrifice today in trying to protect their community and one another. It is a very sad day for our State and our nation and I ask you to join me in prayer for their families as they face this tragedy."

Attorney General Bondi’s statement:

“Attorney General Pam Bondi released the following statement regarding the deaths of Master Sergeant Debra Clayton of the Orlando Police Department and an Orange County Sheriff’s Deputy:

“Today Florida lost two brave law enforcement heroes who died trying to keep us safe. Master Sergeant Debra Clayton of the Orlando Police Department was a dedicated law enforcement officer and a friend. She worked tirelessly to help children from low-income families and was a major advocate for preventing crime in the black community. Sergeant Clayton touched many lives and I am heartbroken at the loss of such a courageous, dedicated law enforcement hero.

“Tragically, we also lost a brave Orange County Sheriff’s Deputy who was participating in the manhunt. Another Orlando Police Officer suffered serious injuries. As the manhunt continues, my prayers are with Sergeant Clayton’s family, the Orange County Sheriff's Deputy’s family and all law enforcement officers putting their lives on the line to protect us from danger.”

Cox Media Group