Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department, Nevada
End of Watch Tuesday, July 23, 2013
David Lee VanBuskirk
Police Officer Dave VanBuskirk died after falling during a nigh-time aerial rescue operation of a hiker on Mount Charleston.
The hiker had become disoriented and was stranded on a rock ledge near Mary Jane Falls. A Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department helicopter located the hiker and lowered Officer VanBuskirk to the location.
Officer VanBuskirk, a member of the Search and Rescue Section, attached the hiker to the hoist. As the helicopter began to raise the two to the helicopter Officer VanBuskirk became detached from the line and fell to the canyon floor below.
Officer VanBuskirk had served with the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department for 13 years. He is survived by his wife.
Bio
- Age 36
- Tour 13 years, 9 months
- Badge 6482
Incident Details
- Cause Fall
- Incident Date Monday, July 22, 2013
Most Recent Reflection
View all 204 ReflectionsHeroes are never forgotten. Thank you for you selfless and dedicated service to protecting the citizens of Las Vegas, Officer VanBuskirk.
Taylor Ramerth
Citizen of Chandler, Arizona, and supporter of law enforcement
July 23, 2016
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