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Tragic BART Incident Compounded Tragedy and Grief

February 1, 2014
SFPOA
Martin Halloran
President

I speak for all of the men and women of the San Francisco Police Officers Association when I say how deeply saddened we are by the tragic accidental killing of Bay Area Rapid Transit Police Sergeant Tom Smith, Jr. He was 42.

Our condolences go out to the Smith family, and to his many friends and co-workers.  Sergeant Smith leaves behind his widow, Kellie Smith, also a BART Officer, and their young daughter. Sergeant Smith’s brothers are also Bay Area law enforcement professionals. His brother Patrick is a Newark police officer, and brother Edward an Alameda County deputy sheriff.

Sergeant Smith is the first BART officer to be killed in the line of duty. He was a well-liked and respected 23-year veteran of the department, who had joined the force as a cadet at the age of 19. Among his assignments were the K-9 Unit, Patrol Sergeant, Detective Sergeant, and department liaison to community groups.

The tragedy of this terrible event was compounded by the accidental circumstances. It is with that knowledge that our members and I also extend our most sincere sympathy to the anguished friends and co-workers of Sergeant Smith.

A memorial fund for the Smith family has been established. Deposits can be made at any Wells Fargo Bank for account number: 5148561086. They can also be mailed to The Tommy Smith Memorial Fund C/O Wells Fargo, 11020 Bollinger Canyon Road, Suite 1, San Ramon, CA 94582.