On the solemn anniversary of a tragedy that struck the city of Irving, Texas, the police department took to social media to honor the memory of one of their own. Officer Aubrey Hawkins, known by badge #830, was brutally killed in the line of duty 23 years ago, on December 24, 2000. Officer Hawkins was responding to a suspicious circumstance call at Oshman's Sporting Goods when he was ambushed and murdered before he could exit his vehicle by seven escaped convicts committing an aggravated robbery, according to the Irving Police Department.
The city and the police department have not forgotten Officer Hawkins' sacrifice. "Today, we remember our brother and honor his sacrifice," said the Irving Police Department, while noting that the Hawkins family will forever be in their hearts. Remembering the fallen hero, the department shared links to video memorials highlighting Hawkins' life and service—in accordance with the police department's commitment, "We will never forget", per the Irving Police Department.
Accompanying the tribute were hashtags, signaling an ongoing remembrance and a close-knit law enforcement community. #WeWillNeverForget, #GoneButNotForgotten, and #BlueFamily were included in the department's post, emphasizing the collective grief and respect held for the slain officer. The Irving Police also demonstrated their support through the hashtag #IPDCares, underlining their compassion for the Hawkins family and the loss they have endured.
