Cozumel, Q.R. — Cozumel police have laid one of their own to rest after a fatal weekend accident. On Monday, Felipe de la Cruz Salazar Pino was paid a farewell by his colleagues after he was killed in Tulum Saturday night.
The young police officer was a pedestrian along a section of the federal highway outside the town when he was struck by a public combi. Salazar Pino was rushed to hospital by ambulance where he died hours later.
Friends and colleagues were made aware of his passing Sunday. On Sunday evening Cozumel Police made a social media post.
“From the Public Security Directorate, we express our sincere condolences for the passing of our beloved colleague, Felipe de la Cruz Salazar Pino. His passing leaves a great void, and we will always remember his dedication and commitment to our institution. Rest in peace,” the SCC (Seguridad Ciudadana Cozumel) said.
Cozumel Police paid their final respects to Felipe de la Cruz Salazar Pino during an 8:30 a.m. ceremony Monday morning.
The officer, who was on personal time, was found wearing an area park bracelet. He was struck by the combi on the night of March 15 at kilometer 243 near a cenote park.
According to initial reports, the police officer was walking toward the town of Tulum on the highway shoulder when he was hit by a Toyota Hiace. Reports say the driver of the combi did stop to assist the pedestrian, but fled the scene before police arrived, leaving behind his empty vehicle.
Aside from a death announcement, police in Cozumel have not commented on the fatal weekend accident. Authorities in Tulum have also not made any public statement surrounding the young officer’s death.
