Never Forgotten: Tampa Police Hold 30th Anniversary Memorial Ceremony in Honor of Officer Norris Epps, Jr. News Tampa Police TAMPA, FL. (January 15, 2025) Chief Lee Bercaw and[...]

TAMPA, FL. (January 15, 2025) - - Chief Lee Bercaw and the Tampa Police Command Staff will join the Tampa Police Memorial Committee to host a Memorial Remembrance Ceremony in tribute to the memory of Officer Norris Epps, Jr. and his line of duty death.

On January 18, 1995, while conducting a search and rescue mission for a missing firefighter in Old Tampa Bay, the helicopter carrying 30-year-old Officer Epps and his pilot, Dan Gilligan, crashed into the water.

Despite the perilous conditions, Officer Ed Bowden courageously jumped into the bay, using his squad car's back seat as a flotation device. He was able to rescue Pilot Gilligan.

Tragically, Officer Epps, a six-year veteran with dreams of becoming a canine handler, succumbed to the frigid waters. His loss left a void in the hearts of his family, friends, and the entire Tampa Police Department.

To honor his memory and the unwavering commitment of all our fallen heroes, the Tampa Police Department will host a Memorial Remembrance Ceremony on Thursday, January 16, 2025, at 11:30 am in front of the Monument to Fallen Officers outside Tampa Police Headquarters.

The ceremony will feature a tribute by the Tampa Police Honor Guard, a solemn reminder of the sacrifices made by Officer Epps and all who serve to protect our community. Members of the Tampa Police Aviation Unit will stand alongside the family of Officer Epps.

The community is invited to join us in remembering Officer Epps and help us ensure he is never forgotten. For those unable to attend, the ceremony will be streamed live at facebook.com/TampaPD .