Las Vegas community gathers to honor fallen Officer Austin Abdelnabi
LAS VEGAS (KSNV) — A grieving community gathered Friday evening at Police Memorial Park to remember fallen Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Officer Austin Abdelnabi.
Family, friends, fellow officers and community members throughout the Las Vegas valley joined one another by candlelight for a vigil honoring the 30-year-old officer, whose life was cut short while serving his community.
Officer Abdelnabi was remembered as a former Marine, a husband, son, brother, and dedicated law enforcement officer who chose a life of service.
“A former Marine, a brother in blue and a man who chose a life of service. He answered the call to serve this community with courage, humility and unwavering dedication,” said IPOF Vice President and LVMPD Lt. Charles Jivapong
Those who knew Abdelnabi also remembered him by his nickname, Zade, describing him as someone whose personality and character could lift the people around him.
“I learned a little bit about Zade. I learned that he was a funny guy. I heard in the briefing rooms he was not a sad guy,” LVPPA President Steve Grammas said.
Abdelnabi's path to law enforcement followed his service in the U.S. Marine Corps, but those honoring him Friday say his commitment to helping others went far beyond the uniform.
“Speaking with Austin's family this week, his dad told me that his name meant warrior, and I don’t think that we can ever forget that this is a man who chose a life of service who truly was a warrior, who went out and confronted evil every day,” said LVMPD Undersheriff Andrew Walsh.
As Abdelnabi's loved ones pay their respects, those gathered at Friday night's vigil emphasized that his family will not have to face the loss alone.
“Sage, we are always going to be there for you. Please know that your family has grown exponentially and Zade will never be forgotten,” said IPOF President and NLVPD Sgt. Alex Cuevas while addressing Officer Abdelnabi's wife, Sage.
Friday’s vigil closed with a message of continued support for Officer Abdelnabi's family and a promise to preserve his memory.
“An entire community stands behind you, Sage. Austin’s final call may be answered, but our responsibility to remember him and care for those he leaves behind continues. For Austin! For Austin! For Austin!
IPOF is also the only organization currently raising funds to help the officer's family and loved ones.
The organization says donations can be made at ipof.vegas.