Off-duty West Palm Beach police officer tragically loses life in canal crash
In a heartbreaking turn of events, a 30-year-old West Palm Beach police officer lost his life in the early hours of Sunday morning after his car veered off North Congress Avenue and plunged into a nearby canal. The devastating incident, which occurred just south of Lombard Street, was reported by a concerned citizen who witnessed the car submerge into the water. Despite efforts from emergency services, the driver, identified as Joshua Tyree Ballesteros, could not be saved and passed away at St. Mary’s Medical Center later that day.
The sequence of events leading to the fatal crash began when the 2017 Ford Fusion driven by Officer Ballesteros inexplicably veered off the road, striking a guardrail before colliding with a tree. The impact caused the vehicle to overturn and land upside down in the canal, trapping the officer inside. Traffic homicide investigators worked diligently to piece together the chain of events, leading to the closure of Southbound Congress Avenue for several hours as they conducted their investigation and removed the vehicle from the water.
The tragic loss of Officer Ballesteros has left a deep void within the West Palm Beach Police Department, with Adam Myers, president of the West Palm Beach Fraternal Order of Police, expressing profound sadness over the passing of their colleague and friend. In a statement shared on social media, Myers extended his condolences to those who knew and loved Officer Ballesteros, emphasizing the impact of his untimely death on the community.
The incident serves as a stark reminder of the risks faced by law enforcement officers both on and off duty, highlighting the unpredictable nature of accidents that can occur at any moment. As the West Palm Beach community mourns the loss of Officer Ballesteros, the memory of his dedication and service will continue to resonate among his colleagues and loved ones.
Our thoughts and prayers go out to the family, friends, and colleagues of Officer Joshua Ballesteros during this difficult time. May he rest in peace..
Realted Post :