Motorcycle cop guarding Pres. dies

[Miulang]

Steven Favela (http://starbulletin.com/breaking/breaking.php?id=5174), the 30 year old HNL Police Officer who was critically injured while in the motorcade escorting the President while he visited Honolulu last week, has died, according to a press release from the White House.

My sincerest condolences to his ohana and the Honolulu Police Dept. on the loss of this fine young man.

Miulang

[pzarquon]

Auē. What sad news.

There was a report on KHON last night about how people came out to donate blood because of Favela's story. Even a tourist visiting from the East Coast. Here's hoping the goodwill he fostered can still do plenty of good, and ensure he's remembered well.

I'm sure he was honored to have that assignment on Tuesday. Condolences to the family.

[GeckoGeek]

:( I don't know what else to say.

[Lei Liko]

How very tragic. I did not know him or his family personally, but I prayed with the rest of the state for his recovery.

My condolences to the Favela family and the HPD Ohana. Officer Favela certainly touched many people in the community and brought out the good in them.

[manoasurfer123]

He is a hero and died in the line of duty.

This is big news and I hope that Lingle declares flags to be raised at half staff tomorow.

Heaven just became a better place.

[Lei Liko]

It just made national news as well (http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20061127/ap_on_re_us/bush_motorcade_accident)

I wonder what the President will do to honor him?

[WindwardOahuRN]

Steven Favela (http://starbulletin.com/breaking/breaking.php?id=5174), the 30 year old HNL Police Officer who was critically injured while in the motorcade escorting the President while he visited Honolulu last week, has died, according to a press release from the White House.

My sincerest condolences to his ohana and the Honolulu Police Dept. on the loss of this fine young man.

Miulang

Heartbreaking.

He was so very critical when he came in. Everyone prayed so hard that he would come through it.

Prayers to his family and loved ones.

[tutusue]

Oh man...that breaks an already broken heart. How terribly, terribly sad. More prayers to his family.

[Glen Miyashiro]

Very sad. My condolences to the family.

When the first reports on the accident were published, I seem to recall an HPD spokesman stating that the location "wasn't a regular roadway", or something to that effect, by way of explaining why the accident occurred. Has there been any additional information regarding the specific conditions (loose gravel? wet roads? mud?) that contributed? And who was it who decided that the presidential motorcade should take that particular route, and why?

Motorcycle police duty carries a certain degree of hazard by its very nature, but I still can't help wondering whether somebody higher up ignored the risks to the men on the ground and planned an unreasonably risky procedure in order to give the president what he wanted. I mean, it's not like this White House has never done that before.

[pzarquon]

When the first reports on the accident were published, I seem to recall an HPD spokesman stating that the location "wasn't a regular roadway", or something to that effect, by way of explaining why the accident occurred.I think that was this Star-Bulletin (http://starbulletin.com/2006/11/22/news/story02.html) write-up, in which HPD spokesman Capt. Frank Fujii said, "The roadway that they were traveling was not the typical asphalt they travel on out there on the public roads." I thought it was curious, too. I'd imagine it's probably a higher grade of surface than the state and city uses, and could therefore have been more slick if wet.

The article, videos and photos from that day seem to suggest the accident happened around here (http://maps.google.com/maps?q=Omalley+Boulevard+And+Apollo+Avenue,+Honolu lu,+HI&ie=UTF8&z=17&ll=21.33466,-157.95201&spn=0.005556,0.013905&t=h&om=1), which is on base at Hickam and certainly seems to have been on a major thoroughfare (O'Malley Blvd.) on which anyone would travel to get to a nearby airfield. I don't think the route was anything unusual, but certainly the circumstances were, and I'm not sure how often HPD officers travel on base.

The article notes that they were going in excess of 40 m.p.h. That sure seems a bit zippy for a base road. I was just thinking last night, during a visit to Schofield, that accidents on base are probably unusual because 10 m.p.h. and 25 m.p.h. limits abound. I was relieved to be driving somewhere where speeds were so modest.

But a presidential visit is an unusual circumstance and definitely an important assignment. An accident is an accident, and this one was tragic.

[Miulang]

Very sad. My condolences to the family.

When the first reports on the accident were published, I seem to recall an HPD spokesman stating that the location "wasn't a regular roadway", or something to that effect, by way of explaining why the accident occurred. Has there been any additional information regarding the specific conditions (loose gravel? wet roads? mud?) that contributed? And who was it who decided that the presidential motorcade should take that particular route, and why?

Motorcycle police duty carries a certain degree of hazard by its very nature, but I still can't help wondering whether somebody higher up ignored the risks to the men on the ground and planned an unreasonably risky procedure in order to give the president what he wanted. I mean, it's not like this White House has never done that before.
The motorcade had to travel from Hickam to the US Pacific Command HQ at Camp Smith. I don't know what roads you could take to get from Hickam to Camp Smith, but the Secret Service usually consults with the local police department on the most appropriate route. A couple of the stories about this accident indicated that the 3 officers all went down at approximately the same spot on a "rain slick" road.

Miulang

[tutusue]

Glenn, I saw on the news last week when Chief Boise Correa mentioned that the cops assigned to the President that day 'rehearsed' for the motorcade as they're required to do. Chief Correa said the only thing they didn't do was rehearse in the rain. Still, the HPD motorcycle cops work in the rain all the time. So, yah, what was different about the Hickam road? It wasn't as if the motorcade was flying down the freeway.

Losing this officer in this way (in any way, really) is just so tragic. His youngest child is 3 months old.

[tutusue]

[...] A couple of the stories about this accident indicated that the 3 officers all went down at approximately the same spot on a "rain slick" road.[...]
And another story mentioned that officers #2 and #3 went down avoiding officer #1. I wonder if we'll ever hear what really happened.

[lavagal]

And the reality is a police motorcade for a president is all showmanship. I honestly do not see how a police motorcade is actually "protecting" the president. Sure, it might be an honor to escort the highest office around, but I doubt anyone expects they'll die doing it. The chances of a presidential motorcade being attacked? On a military base? Well, Secret Service would instantly react to that anyway, right? I am so sad for this young 30-year-old loving husband and father of four. It's more than a cop dying...it's a little society taking a hit here.

[poinographer]

What a shocking, sad outcome. I wonder if the President will return to Hawaii for Officer Favela's memorial service.

[buzz1941]

If they were really doing 40-ish on that stretch, it's way too fast. Presidential motorcades like to move quickly for obvious reasons, but that flat turn by the Hickam gate is designed for something like 10 mph.

[Lei Liko]

What a shocking, sad outcome. I wonder if the President will return to Hawaii for Officer Favela's memorial service.

Highly doubtful. I read somewhere that his schedule's pretty much set in stone until his last day in office. Being that Officer Favela isn't a national head of state, I find it unlikely that the President would clear his schedule for his service. Send a representative, maybe...but he won't come here.

[Glen Miyashiro]

If they were really doing 40-ish on that stretch, it's way too fast. Presidential motorcades like to move quickly for obvious reasons, but that flat turn by the Hickam gate is designed for something like 10 mph.Which reminds me of the generally very low speed limits which are strictly enforced by the base MPs... except in this instance, apparently. Huh.

[Lei Liko]

Official statement from President and Mrs. Bush (http://www.whitehouse.gov/news/releases/2006/11/20061126-1.html)

[GeckoGeek]

This is big news and I hope that Lingle declares flags to be raised at half staff tomorow.

Seems fitting. I suspect that the news about half-staff will come out on Monday, but the day will be later in the week to allow time for everyone to get word. Maybe not, but it usually seems like the half-staff comes well after everyone knows.

[GeckoGeek]

And the reality is a police motorcade for a president is all showmanship. I honestly do not see how a police motorcade is actually "protecting" the president.

From one source I've heard, their job was to halt traffic to allow the motorcade to pass. Then they would "leapfrog" the motorcade to get ahead and halt the next intersection. In that case, yes, they would be performing a valid function, and would be at times traveling faster then the motorcade.

The most dangerous conditions is when the road is damp. Just enough rain to bring the oil to the surface, but not enough to wash it away.

[poinographer]

Yup. Formation riding is tricky, and if a leading bike goes down it's unlikely for the trailing bikes to avoid a chain reaction crash.

[craigwatanabe]

I was shocked upon hearing that news, but was wondering at the same time, just how bad that accident was.

I know he and fellow officers had slipped on something while on Hickam AFB but what speed were they going at and how does something like this happen with such fatal results?

What exactly happened that allowed for such critical injuries? This story is tragic yet amazing at the same time.

[WindwardOahuRN]

I was shocked upon hearing that news, but was wondering at the same time, just how bad that accident was.

I know he and fellow officers had slipped on something while on Hickam AFB but what speed were they going at and how does something like this happen with such fatal results?

What exactly happened that allowed for such critical injuries? This story is tragic yet amazing at the same time.

Internal injuries, massive bleeding. A very bad hit in a very bad place. It takes surprisingly little force to devastate the human body.

I am reminded frequently just how fragile life is and how quickly and easily it can be altered or taken away. It's really very frightening, when I think about things I have seen.

[Pomai]

Our heartfelt condolences go out to Officer Favela's ohana.

We were truly crushed to hear about his declining condition and passing. If I had 0-positive blood, I would've immediately donated. This made national news (http://abcnews.go.com/US/wireStory?id=2681009) due to his duty to protect the President.

God Bless.

[Miulang]

I think I read somewhere that he had severed an artery (just like the Crocodile Hunter). If it was the femoral artery, my guess is that they couldn't control the massive bleeding.

Miulang

[Lei Liko]

Internal injuries, massive bleeding. A very bad hit in a very bad place. It takes surprisingly little force to devastate the human body.

I am reminded frequently just how fragile life is and how quickly and easily it can be altered or taken away. It's really very frightening, when I think about things I have seen.

I think I read somewhere that he had severed an artery (just like the Crocodile Hunter). If it was the femoral artery, my guess is that they couldn't control the massive bleeding.

Miulang

Didn't they have to amputate because of that? :(

[Miulang]

Condolences (http://starbulletin.com/2006/11/28/news/story03.html) are pouring in from everywhere to console the ohana of Officer Favela. What's really sad is his wife, Barbara, is a nurse at Queen's (where the officer was taken after the accident) and is on maternity leave after the birth of their 2-month old child.

Miulang

[Glen Miyashiro]

Peter Boylan's Advertiser story (http://www.honoluluadvertiser.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20061128/NEWS01/611280343/1001) today says:

Joaquin [spokesman for the Secret Service] said the purpose of using officers in the motorcade is to allow the president's vehicle to move at a proper clip through areas where it might be vulnerable. He said local police departments are best at navigating the presidential motorcade through unfamiliar streets.Hold on. Since when are Honolulu Police Department officers considered best at navigating through Hickam Air Force Base? Does HPD ever enter military bases at all? Isn't that outside of their jurisdiction? What happened to the base MPs? I'm sorry, Special Agent Joaquin; that justification doesn't hold water. Officer Favela and the rest of the HPD escort were driving on streets that were just as unfamiliar to them as they were to you. :mad:

[brianca]

He probably meant the procedure of using local officers in general, and not that individual case.

[joshuatree]

Agreed, think the reference was to standard operating procedures, when the motorcade does traverse outside of military compounds. Don't think anyone would have foreseen the accident.

[glossyp]

I wonder about the paving there which made it so slick. It sounds like the coral based aggregate that many roads on Guam are paved with - it makes them incredibly slick and dangerous which is why the max. speed limit is typically 35mph. Locals know to drive much slower when it's been raining.

It's a tragedy without doubt. I echo the condolences of other HT members. I'm donating blood tomorrow in his memory and to help replenish the blood supply - anyone want to join me?

[achow]

I will be definitely be praying for Officer Steve Favala's family, especially for his wife Barbara and the four children she has to raise alone.

[Lei Liko]

I know most of us will be at the game tonight, but America's Most Wanted will pay tribute to Officer Favela (http://the.honoluluadvertiser.com/article/2006/Dec/02/br/br5639740218.html) in tonight's episode.

[dallascat70]

I just have to give my 2 cents, I live on Hickam AFB and have been very saddened by the loss of this man as you all are. I am NO expert on roadways, pavement surfaces or anything for that matter, but the first thing I thought, when I heard news of accident, was why are they going so fast? Its a *normal* road, and a frequently travelled one-anyone who works on hickam most likely travels on THIS street, the max speed limit is 35mph (which is high for base-25 everywhere else and 15 in housing areas) and news reports said between 50-65mph. Who knows if that is even true, every news source tell different stories, and no HPD do not frequent the base, I think they are called in for just certain cases, civilian related issues where the Mil police calls them in (to answer poster above). I questioned my husband and other active duty friends (im dependent) that if the issue to place anything in Memorium for this man on base is in talks-and they say none that they know of, just taking donations for family. I know police that die in line of duty for Pres and so forth is rare-but if they were truly going at those speeds on a rain slicked unknown street, I think it should be reevaluated, whats the rush? Base was almost in complete lockdown during Bushs stay, and I may take heat from this but personally I hope Bush stays away from Hawaii, alot of havoc and harm in those 17 or so hours.

[WindwardOahuRN]

I just have to give my 2 cents, I live on Hickam AFB and have been very saddened by the loss of this man as you all are. I am NO expert on roadways, pavement surfaces or anything for that matter, but the first thing I thought, when I heard news of accident, was why are they going so fast? Its a *normal* road, and a frequently travelled one-anyone who works on hickam most likely travels on THIS street, the max speed limit is 35mph (which is high for base-25 everywhere else and 15 in housing areas) and news reports said between 50-65mph. Who knows if that is even true, every news source tell different stories, and no HPD do not frequent the base, I think they are called in for just certain cases, civilian related issues where the Mil police calls them in (to answer poster above). I questioned my husband and other active duty friends (im dependent) that if the issue to place anything in Memorium for this man on base is in talks-and they say none that they know of, just taking donations for family. I know police that die in line of duty for Pres and so forth is rare-but if they were truly going at those speeds on a rain slicked unknown street, I think it should be reevaluated, whats the rush? Base was almost in complete lockdown during Bushs stay, and I may take heat from this but personally I hope Bush stays away from Hawaii, alot of havoc and harm in those 17 or so hours.

Donate. Lay the remaining crap to rest.

[Lei Liko]

President Bush won't be able to attend Officer Favela's service, but two members of his Cabinet will (http://the.honoluluadvertiser.com/article/2006/Dec/05/br/br9751640328.html), on his behalf.

[1stwahine]

I attended Officer Favela's Funeral this morning. As soon as I got there, I was instructed to parked. I headed straight to the Mortuary. I saw people standing by the door so I entered and went straight to sign the guest book. Suddenly, Da Chief smiled at me so I wondered. I looked to my left. OMG! The line started from the odda side!:eek: I hurried and finished signing in and gave my envelope. I hurried away and shyly sneaked to the back from the side of the building.:o I stood in line and waited patiently amongst the other mourners. By the time I got back to the Chief, he was laughing.

"Eh, wea you went Auntie? I was trying to call you back! You neva need to go in line!"

I just shook his hand and SMILED!

As I neared the coffin of Officer Favela...my heart couldn't stop pounding. My tears would not stop from dropping. I remained collective as the rest of the mourners. There he was. Officer Steve Favela. A Hero, a son, a husband, a father, a brother, an uncle, a friend, an HPD Officer, a son of Hawai'i nei....too young ~ Resting in Peace.

I hug the family and said a small prayer as I stood in front of his casket. Then I walked out with my head high. I represented my Ohana today.

I stood silently outside for a little while to get back my composure. I looked at all the other HPD Officers. How much dedication they give into their jobs so we can sleep better at night and go about during the day. Yet, we continue to gripe about things they do. Yes, I do the same. The majority of HPD is tops ~ have been and will always be.

My Papale off to all them and my heartful gratitude for being the Best in the Nation!

Auntie Lynn

[kumukulanui]

Mahalo nui loa for the moving account Auntie Lynn.

Peter

[1stwahine]

Mahalo nui loa for the moving account Auntie Lynn.

Peter

You're very welcome...my daughter starts in three weeks.;)

Auntie Lynn

[Miulang]

You're very welcome...my daughter starts in three weeks.;)

Auntie Lynn
So will she be working with Moose?

[1stwahine]

So will she be working with Moose?

She already works with him at Hickim. He's her COMMANDER!;)

Auntie Lynn

[Miulang]

She already works with him at Hickim. He's her COMMANDER!;)

Auntie Lynn

I thought he graduated from the police academy a couple of months ago too? There was a story in the local papers about his graduation not too long ago, so I figured he'd have to start on foot patrol all over again.

[1stwahine]

I thought he graduated from the police academy a couple of months ago too? There was a story in the local papers about his graduation not too long ago, so I figured he'd have to start on foot patrol all over again.

There's a policy that you have to start from scratch no matter if you come from another Department in the Nation. He took the tests and went through the courses as every cadet does and graduated. I believe at HPD, however, when they choose the Chief the process let's everyone in the Dept. eligible for the position. The next time should be mighty interesting.

Auntie Lynn

[alohakat]

Law enforcement is such a calling. We need to continue to hold these people in very high esteem for holding the safe boundaries in our society. Too often people forget how much they risk for our daily safe comfort. These people never know what risk may come before them in the middle or end of a "normal" day. And none of them are paid "extra" for daily risking their lives.

Without getting into politics, I hope that the speed is being investigated and that other officers in the future will not be put unnecessarily at risk.

And the motor officers do perform a vital function of swift traffic (and crowd) control, providing a moving and easily changed barrier in motorcades, some jumping ahead and coordinating with patrol vehicles at blocks, easily able to pull away and investigate something when needed. It is not about performance. I know many motor officers, including some on special detail teams in Northern California, who do the same duty when we have high profile visitors. There is a separate "performance" team in many departments that sometimes performs in front of crowds, but motorcades for high profile visitors are not about performance.