News Summary
The community of Columbia, South Carolina, mourns the loss of Master Police Officer Christopher ‘Chris’ Santos Carrizales, a dedicated public servant. With nearly two decades in law enforcement, Chris was not only a protector of the community but also a beloved family man, proud veteran, and mentor. His remarkable achievements, including Officer of the Year, showcased his commitment to service. As the community reflects on his life, they honor the legacy he leaves behind in the hearts of many.
Columbia Mourns the Loss of a Dedicated Public Servant
In the heart of Columbia, South Carolina, the community is coming together to mourn the passing of Master Police Officer Christopher “Chris” Santos Carrizales, a remarkable man who dedicated his life to serving others. Chris, as he was fondly known, passed away after a period of hospitalization at Prisma Health, and his absence leaves a profound void in the lives of many.
A Life Devoted to Service
Chris was not just a police officer; he was a loving family man, a proud veteran, and a friend to countless individuals in the community. His journey in law enforcement began when he took the Oath of Office on April 18, 2005, officially joining the Columbia Police Department. He had a clear vision from a young age to serve in the field of policing, and he truly lived that dream.
Over nearly two decades with the CPD, Chris held numerous positions including roles in the North Region Patrol, Community Services, and the Drug Suppression Team. His varied work showcased his commitment to ensuring public safety and building strong community ties. Notably, he served on the security detail for Columbia’s current and former mayors, showcasing the trust and respect he earned within the city’s leadership.
A Veteran Who Served with Honor
Born in 1968 in Gary, Indiana, and raised in Chicago, Chris took pride in his service in the United States Army from 1988 to 1992. His military career included deployment to the Persian Gulf during Operation Desert Storm and several years in Germany. He was awarded various honors, including the Army Commendation Medal and the Bronze Service Star, reflecting his dedication and bravery in the line of duty.
Recognition and Accomplishments
In recognition of his extraordinary work, Chris was awarded the Columbia Police Department Officer of the Year and the Community Achievement Award in 2012. Such accolades were not merely the result of his dedication but also demonstrated the impact he had in fostering positive relationships between the police department and the community he served.
A Heartfelt Farewell
Family Above All
Chris is survived by his cherished family, including his parents Javier and Celia Carrizales, his beloved wife Gayle, with whom he shared 34 wonderful years, and their two children, Blake and Lauren. The legacy he leaves behind is not only in his professional accomplishments but also in the love and memories cherished by his family and friends.
Remembering a Legacy
The community of Columbia will long remember Chris Santos Carrizales for his unwavering dedication to service and the impact he made on the lives of many. As Columbia grieves the loss of this outstanding officer, the spirit of his commitment to serve and protect will continue to inspire both current and future generations of officers.
As we reflect on Chris’s life, let us all take a moment to honor his service and celebrate the impact he made. He will always be remembered as a true hero in Columbia, and his legacy will live on in the hearts of the many lives he touched.
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Additional Resources
- WISTV: City of Columbia Announces Passing of Master Police Officer Christopher “Chris” Santos Carrizales
- Wikipedia: Columbia, South Carolina
- WACH: Columbia Community Mourns Beloved Master Police Officer
- Google Search: Christopher Santos Carrizales news
- WISTV: Columbia Police Provides Exclusive Look at De-Escalation Training
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Policing
- WISTV: 1 Arrested for Murder After 17-Year-Old Shot Over Relationship, Police Say
- Google News: Columbia Police Department
