Lincoln Police Officer Mario Herrera dies from his injuries

LINCOLN, NE — A Lincoln police officer wounded while serving an arrest warrant last month has died from his injuries.

Lincoln Police announced today that Mario Herrera died early this morning. Police say Herrera was shot by 17-year-old Felipe Vazquez on August 26th at a house near 33rd and Vine Streets. Herrera was attempting to serve a second-degree assault warrant related to a March homicide.  Vazquez is charged with felony escape.

Herrera was a 23-year veteran of the Lincoln Police Department. A news release says, “Mario was an exceptional investigator, a selfless teammate, and a tireless public servant. Empathetic, kind, and utterly committed to serving victims and protecting his community, Mario was an exemplary human being who just happened to be a Lincoln police officer.”

Gov. Pete Ricketts has ordered flags to fly at half staff now until sunset on Friday, September 11.

“Susanne and I were devastated to learn of the passing of Investigator Mario Herrera,” said Gov. Ricketts.  “Investigator Herrera’s service and sacrifice will never be forgotten.  I also want to thank people across the state who stepped up to support the Herrera family in the midst of this terrible tragedy.”

The Nebraska State Patrol says it is mourning the loss of a fellow law enforcement officer.

“Nebraska’s law enforcement family has suffered a tragic loss today,” said Colonel John Bolduc, Superintendent of the Nebraska State Patrol. “We send our deepest condolences to Investigator Herrera’s family and friends, along with the entire Lincoln Police Department and all who had the privilege of knowing him. Our troopers were honored to work beside Mario, and will forever remember his service and sacrifice.”

Herrera leaves behind his wife and four children.