Los Angeles, May 3, 2014 - On behalf of all members of the Los Angeles Police Protective League (LAPPL), President Tyler Izen responded to the tragic news that Los Angeles police officer Roberto Sanchez was killed in a hit and run collision when his patrol car was struck by a suspected DUI hit-and-run driver in Harbor City.

“Once again, our hearts are broken,” Izen said. “The LAPPL is saddened by the deaths of two officers in the past 24 hours. One officer died yesterday due to a medical condition and Officer Roberto Sanchez was killed by a suspected DUI driver today while protecting and serving the residents of Los Angeles in the Harbor Area.

"Today the world has lost a true hero. Roberto will be greatly missed as a protector of our society and even more as a person. We live in a dangerous world and Roberto served to keep our community safe. We extend our deepest condolences to the Sanchez family and his friends and coworkers.

“This is a hard time for the LAPD family having lost two dedicated and well-liked officers in the last 24 hours. As we have done all too often lately, we ask that the community please keep both officers and their families in their prayers and remember the sacrifices paid by law enforcement officers daily to keep our communities safe.

"We are praying for a speedy recovery for Officer Sanchez' partner, who was seriously injured in the crash, but managed to use his cell phone to call for help.”

Contact: Eric Rose (805) 624-0572 or Paul Haney (626) 755-4759.

About the LAPPL: Formed in 1923, the Los Angeles Police Protective League (LAPPL) represents the more than 9,900 dedicated and professional sworn members of the Los Angeles Police Department. The LAPPL serves to advance the interests of LAPD officers through legislative and legal advocacy, political action and education. The LAPPL can be found on the Web at www.LAPD.com.