West Jordan Police Fallen Officer Memorial

Since the West Jordan Police Department was founded in 1967, two police officers and one police service dog have lost their lives protecting our community. While the number may not be high, the impact of these losses is immeasurable, felt deeply by families, friends, fellow officers, and the entire city.

Honoring Sacrifice

When the current police building was constructed, a small memorial was placed at the south employee entrance as a reminder of the ultimate sacrifice paid by two of our own. Though meaningful, the space was not inviting, a concrete corner without seating or a place for reflection.

Recognizing the need for something more fitting, the department created a new Fallen Officer Memorial Garden.

A Living Tribute

Every element of the memorial carries meaning:

  • A single stone for the ultimate sacrifice
  • A reflection pool for remembrance
  • Flowing water to quiet the outside world
  • Greenery, flowers, and fish forming a self-sustaining ecosystem

Benches, new trees, and engraved stone markers complete the space. Each name represents a life dedicated to protecting others:

  • Officer Thomas M. Rees – 1986
  • Officer Ron Wood – 2002
  • K9 Maya – 2022

Empty space remains on the stones, a solemn reminder of the risks officers face each day.

Remembering Our Fallen

Officer Thomas Rees
February 23, 1986

Accidentally killed during a firearm training exercise. The Thomas Rees Justice Center is named in his honor. He served six years with the department and is survived by his wife, two children, and a stepchild.

Officer Ron Wood
November 18, 2002

Shot and killed while attempting to arrest a suspect wanted for questioning in an aggravated assault case. He served eight years with the department and is survived by his wife.

K9 Maya
February 17, 2022

Shot and killed while apprehending an armed felony suspect. Maya served six years with the department.

Community Support

This memorial was made possible entirely through donations. Every feature from the plants donated by Glover Nursery to the water feature from Aquascape, Inc., to the planting and decorative rockwork done by volunteer officers—represents the generosity of our community.

We extend heartfelt thanks to:
Canyon View Credit Union, Glover Nursery, MedVet Salt Lake City, Altaview Concrete, Premier Vehicle Installation, Gordon Milar Construction, Don and Teresa Skaggs, Frontier Mint, West Jordan Fraternal Order of Police, Aquascape, Inc., Nationwide Insurance, Robert Drago, volunteer officers, and City Parks and Public Works staff.

West Jordan police vehicle