MIAMI.– The City of Doral identified the police officer found dead in southwest Miami-Dade as Erwin Fernández, a 13-year veteran of the institution whose career was closely linked to the children and families of the community.
Fernandez was a husband, father of three, and school resource officer at Downtown Doral Charter Elementary School. The official directory of the school confirms both the spelling of his name and the function he performed, data that clears up an initial confusion in some reports about his identity.
Thirteen years of community service
Fernández’s work was not limited to school security. Records of community activities show that he participated in the Doral Police Explorers program, an initiative aimed at teaching teenagers about the police profession, leadership and citizen service.
The municipality remembered him as an exceptional public servant, recognized for his integrity, humility and sense of duty. He also highlighted his kindness, his willingness to help other people and the commitment he maintained to the safety of Doral.
Images spread through different platforms also show recognitions he received for actions that helped save lives.
Doral Police Chief Matthew Castillo stated that the loss deeply affects the entire agency. He explained that the links between those who work together in the Police transcend the professional sphere and become family relationships.
Investigation without evidence of criminal intervention
Fernandez was found Wednesday morning in the area of 157th Avenue and Southwest 160th Street, known as Colonial Drive, in Redland. Miami-Dade Sheriff’s Office deputies and Miami-Dade Fire Rescue personnel responded shortly after 6:20 a.m.
A Ford Police Interceptor Utility belonging to the Doral Police remained parked on a gravel road between several farms. The authorities did not specify whether the agent was found inside or outside the vehicle nor did they explain why he was in that rural area.
Detective Daniel Castillo, spokesman for the Sheriff’s Office, reported that investigators do not suspect criminal intervention. The cause of death had not been disclosed by the medical examiner at the time of writing. The authorities have also not reported whether Fernández was on duty when the incident occurred.
For his part, Miami-Dade Commissioner René García lamented the “tragic loss” of officer Erwin Fernández and urged first responders and their families to seek support if they are going through an emotional crisis.
The county legislator recalled that First Alarm Foundation offers assistance resources and that line 988 is available for those who need help. “There is no shame; let’s talk,” he said.
Miami-Dade Mayor Daniella Levine Cava expressed condolences to the officer’s family, friends and colleagues, as the investigation continues pending official conclusions.
