The Saint Paul Police Department today honored the service and sacrifice of Officer Felicia Reilly with a line-of-duty death funeral following her death on March 1, 2025. Reilly, who served with distinction, succumbed to injuries sustained from an assault in 2010, enduring a 15-year battle that ultimately led to her passing. Police Chief Axel Henry delivered a statement expressing profound respect for Reilly, noting, "Today, Saint Paul Police Officer Felicia Reilly will receive the full honors she deserves with a line of duty death funeral, given how she was viciously assaulted in 2010 and for her bravery over the last 15 years fighting the injuries that ultimately led to her tragic death on March 1, 2025." He further noted that although the legal system is barred from charging her attacker anew due to the double jeopardy clause of the U.S. Constitution, the department can still honor her legacy and the sacrifice she made.
The ceremony for Officer Reilly was made available to the public through a live stream, and the community was encouraged to show their support along the procession route. The vigil, stretching a 5-mile expanse on Larpenteur Avenue, was a testament to the collective grief and respect the community held for a fallen hero. The procession departed from Gustavus Church around noon, as was communicated via Saint Paul Police Department's Facebook page.
Officer Reilly's life and public service were marked by an unwavering dedication to duty, even in the face of personal adversity and injury. Her loss is a sobering reminder of the risks law enforcement officers take every day. In Chief Henry's words, "Heroes and their sacrifices should never be forgotten. Officer Reilly is one of those heroes and we will never allow her courage and sacrifice to be forgotten."
Following the service, Officer Reilly's final journey took her to Roselawn Cemetery, where she was laid to rest with full honors.
