Los Angeles Police Department, California
End of Watch Tuesday, September 19, 2000
Add to My HeroesRobert Joe Mata
Officer Mata was killed in a single vehicle accident while he responded to backup another officer who was investigating a stolen vehicle.
During the response, Officer Mata lost control of his cruiser and struck a utility pole on the driver's side. Officer Mata's partner was injured in the accident and was freed by responding officers. Rescue crews had to use the jaws of life to remove Officer Mata from the cruiser. He was transported to a local hospital where he was pronounced dead.
Officer Mata had been employed with the Los Angeles Police Department for six years. He is survived by his wife, a recent graduate of the police academy, and his two young children.
Bio
- Age 26
- Tour 6 years
- Badge 32571
Incident Details
- Cause Automobile crash
Most Recent Reflection
View all 56 ReflectionsI just found obout Officer Mata's death on September 19, 2000.
My profound condolences to his widow.
I've loved the LAPD my whole life.
Sharon Leigh Garner
Santa Cruz, CA
Private citizen
I live in the jurisdiction of the Santa Cruz P.D., which was founded i
January 18, 2023
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