Funeral held for slain Downey police Officer Ricky Galvez

LOS ANGELES -- Family members, friends and colleagues of slain Downey police Officer Ricardo 'Ricky' Galvez remembered him Monday morning as a humble, hard-working man with an infectious smile.

Galvez was honored with a 9 a.m. service at the Cathedral of Our Lady Of the Angels in downtown Los Angeles.

"He was a humble man. He always gave whatever was asked of him and more," Downey police Chief Carl Charles said.

Galvez was shot to death Nov. 18 in what officials believe was a botched robbery attempt.

The 29-year-old was attacked while sitting in his car in civilian clothes next to the Downey Police Department. He had just returned from a K-9 training session. Three people, including two teenagers, are facing murder charges.

On Sunday, more than 1,000 people attended a vigil and rosary service at the Downey Civic Center to pay their respects to the slain officer.

Galvez was a five-year veteran with the Downey Police Department. He also served as a Marine in Iraq and Afghanistan. He is the first officer to be gunned down while on duty in Downy police history.

The following streets are closed due to the funeral:

- Hill Street between First Street and the 101 Freeway;

- Temple Street between Grand and Broadway avenues;

- Northbound Grand Avenue between Temple and First streets.

The Downey Police Department and the Downey Federal Credit Union set up a memorial fund to assist Galvez's family.

Donations can be directed to Downey Police Cpl. Mike Pope, president of Downey Police Officer's Association, or to the Downey Federal Credit Union.

See more donation information below:

Mike Pope - President of DPOA

10911 Brookshire Avenue

Downey, CA 90241

562-904-2308

mpope@downeyca.org

Downey Federal Credit Union

Officer Ricardo Galvez Fund

8237 Third Street

Downey, CA 90241

562-862-8141

Monday - Friday: 9:00am - 5:30pm.

Saturday: 9:00am - 2:00pm

Non-Business Hours Drop Off (Box is located by the ATM)

Only cash or checks are being accepted at this time. Please make checks payable to "Officer Ricardo Galvez Fund."