The South Florida law enforcement community is in mourning after a devastating crash on Thursday morning claimed the lives of two veteran Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office (PBSO) deputies and left a third in critical condition. The crash occurred at approximately 9:29 a.m. on Southern Boulevard near Lion Country Safari.

The Incident

The deputies, who collectively served 64 years in PBSO’s motorcycle unit, were performing traffic enforcement duties when an SUV veered off the road and struck them. All three deputies were airlifted to St. Mary’s Medical Center, where two were pronounced dead, and the third remains in an induced coma due to critical injuries, including internal bleeding.

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Deputies Identified

PBSO spokeswoman Teri Barbera identified the deputies involved:

• Cpl. Luis Paez (born 1966): A PBSO veteran with over 36 years of service, including 20 years as a dedicated motor deputy.
• Deputy Sheriff Ralph “Butch” Waller (born 1970): An 18-year member of the motor unit who began his career with the Royal Palm Beach Police Department before its merger with PBSO in 2008.
• Deputy Ignacio “Dan” Diaz (born 1973): Injured in the crash, Diaz has been with PBSO since 2004 and has over a decade of experience in the motor unit.

Outpouring of Grief

The loss has sparked widespread grief and tributes from colleagues, friends, and community members.

PBSO President John Kazanjian described the tragedy as “an absolute gut punch” and empathized with the families of the fallen deputies, sharing his personal experience of losing a loved one in a car crash.

One of the victims, Cpl. Luis Paez, was remembered fondly for his passion for photography and his willingness to lend a helping hand. “He was a shining light with everyone that he met,” a close friend and fellow photographer shared.

Investigation Ongoing

The Florida Highway Patrol (FHP) is leading the investigation into the crash. Authorities are examining whether a mechanical malfunction or driver negligence contributed to the incident. The driver of the SUV has not yet been identified, and no charges have been filed.

Kazanjian urged patience as investigators work to determine the facts. “We need to gather all the information before deciding if the driver should face consequences,” he said.

Community Honors the Fallen Deputies

Vigils and Tributes

A vigil was held on Friday evening, with dozens gathering to honor the lives and legacies of the fallen deputies. Messages of condolences and support for the injured Deputy Diaz have poured in from across the community.

Statewide Mourning

Florida Governor Ron DeSantis has ordered U.S. and Florida flags to be flown at half-staff in Palm Beach County from 3 p.m. to sunset on Friday and from sunrise to sunset on December 3, as a mark of respect for the deputies.

Conclusion

The tragic loss of Cpl. Luis Paez and Deputy Sheriff Ralph Waller, along with the critical condition of Deputy Ignacio Diaz, underscores the daily risks faced by law enforcement officers in their service to the community.

As the investigation continues, the Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office and the local community stand united in their grief, remembering the dedication and sacrifices of these brave deputies.

Our thoughts and prayers are with the families, friends, and colleagues of the deputies during this incredibly difficult time.