Palm Beach County, FL – The Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office (PBSO) is mourning the loss of Deputy Ignacio “Dan” Diaz, who succumbed to injuries sustained in a tragic accident last week. Diaz passed away on Monday, November 25, 2024, at 12:42 p.m., following a collision that also claimed the lives of Deputy Ralph “Butch” Waller and Corporal Luis Paez1.
The accident occurred on November 21, 2024, when Diaz, Waller, and Paez were struck by an SUV while assisting with a disabled vehicle on Southern Boulevard near Loxahatchee. The deputies were on the shoulder of the road when the SUV veered off the main lane and collided with them.
Diaz, who joined PBSO in 2004 and had been with the motor unit for over a decade, bravely fought for his life but ultimately succumbed to his injuries. Waller and Paez were pronounced dead at the hospital shortly after the crash.
The PBSO released a statement expressing profound sadness and mourning the loss of their dedicated deputies. “We again mourn the loss of our brothers who dedicated their lives to serving and protecting Palm Beach County,” the statement read. “We stand together, honoring their memory and supporting their families, friends, and colleagues through this time of immense sorrow.”
A memorial service for the fallen deputies is being planned for December 3, 2024, at the South Florida Fairgrounds. The United States Honor Flag will travel to honor the three men, and the community is invited to pay their respects and support the families during this difficult time.
Drews Cop Shop extends our deepest condolences to the families and friends of Deputy Ignacio Diaz, Deputy Ralph Waller, and Corporal Luis Paez. Their bravery and dedication to duty will always be remembered. May they rest in peace, and may their families find comfort and strength in the love and support of the community.
