Two of America’s Finest, Officer Austin Machitar and his partner, Officer Zachary Martinez, went to work on the night of Monday, August 26, 2024, to serve and protect San Diego. Following a horrific, fiery crash involving a fleeing suspect, Officer Machitar was killed. His partner, Officer Martinez is fighting for his life. We join you in heartbroken dismay at so great a tragedy.

Twenty-four hours a day, seven days a week, our men and women in blue put their lives on the line to keep us safe. They deserve our support and gratitude every day, but especially now, in the wake of this profound loss. 

If you would like to express your care by a gift of support to the families of these two fine officers, we invite you to contribute to the Fund A Hero campaign, organized by the San Diego Police Officers Association (SDPOA) Foundation.

100% of your donation will be provided to the families of these two SDPD Officers by the SDPOA, whose special mission of benevolence is to comfort and support the families of officers when the unthinkable happens.

You can turn your sorrow and shock into a helping hand to uplift these families who so need and deserve the embrace of the community at a time like this. Support the families of our fallen and injured heroes today.