Passing of Detective Thomas Lopey

The City of Reno and Reno Police Department are mourning the loss of Detective Thomas Lopey, a dedicated public servant whose career was defined by
service to his country, his community, and his fellow officers. Detective Lopey served the residents of Reno with distinction for nearly 13 years, leaving a lasting impact on the department
and the community he swore to protect.

"Tom was the kind of police officer every department hopes to have, and every officer is fortunate to work beside," said Reno Police Chief Corey Solferino. "I had the privilege of knowing and working with him throughout much of my career. He was a dedicated detective, a respected leader and, most importantly, a genuinely good man who cared deeply about his family, his fellow officers and the community he served. His loss is felt throughout our department, and his legacy will continue through the countless lives he impacted."

Detective Lopey proudly served his country in the United States Army for four years. As an infantry mortarman, he deployed in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom during the Iraq War. Following his active-duty service, he continued serving in the National Guard as a combat engineer, carrying forward his lifelong commitment to service.

Driven by a deep desire to continue serving others, Detective Lopey began his law enforcement career with the Washoe County Sheriff's Office as a Deputy Sheriff. He later transferred to the Reno Police Department, where he faithfully served the community for nearly 13 years.

During his career with the Reno Police Department, Detective Lopey excelled in patrol operations and earned the respected role of Patrol Training Officer, mentoring and guiding new officers early in their careers. He later earned an assignment to the Regional Gang Unit, reflecting both his exceptional work ethic and the trust placed in him by his peers and supervisors. Lopey eventually became a detective while also serving as a member of the Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT) Team, where he continued to demonstrate courage, leadership, and unwavering dedication to his fellow officers and the community he served.

Throughout his career, Detective Lopey was known not only for his professionalism and leadership, but also for his willingness to mentor younger officers and invest in their success. His guidance and example helped shape the careers of many officers who had the privilege of working alongside him.

As Detective Lopey's career progressed, so did the admiration and respect he earned from those around him. Deeply valued by his fellow officers, he was elected President of the Reno Police Protective Association, a role he proudly served in for three years. In that position, he became a strong advocate, trusted leader, and unwavering voice for the men and women of the Reno Police Department.

"Detective Lopey exemplified the very best of public service," said Reno City Manager Jackie Bryant. "From serving our nation in uniform to protecting the residents of Reno, he dedicated his life to helping others. His commitment, leadership and sacrifice made our community stronger, and his loss is felt across the entire City organization. On behalf of the City of Reno, I extend my deepest condolences to his family, friends and colleagues."

"On behalf of the residents of Reno, I extend our heartfelt condolences to Detective Lopey's family, friends and everyone in the Reno Police Department," said Reno Mayor Hillary Schieve. "We are grateful for his service, and our community joins together in remembering and honoring his life. Detective Lopey spent his life serving something larger than himself. Whether serving our nation in the Army or protecting our community as a Reno police officer, he devoted his life to helping others and answered every call to serve with honor and dedication."

Detective Lopey is survived by his wife and daughter.

The City of Reno and Reno Police Department ask the community to keep Detective Lopey's family, friends and colleagues in their thoughts during this difficult time. Additional information regarding memorial services will be shared when available and in coordination with the family.