A public memorial service for slain Oakland police Officer Tuan Le was held Wednesday in Castro Valley.
California Attorney General Rob Bonta, Oakland Police Department Interim Chief Darren Allison and some of Le's family members were among those who delivered remarks and shared stories.
"Officer Le personified what it was to exude a deep compassion for his law enforcement family and the community he chose to serve," Allison said. "His kindness, his loyalty, and his smile will remain in our memories. A true hero, he will never be forgotten."
Le, 36, was fatally shot on Dec. 29 while working an undercover burglary operation. He was in plainclothes and driving an unmarked police truck when he and other officers answered a report of a burglary in progress at a cannabis grow house near Jack London Square, where marijuana plants had been stolen in at least three other burglaries that night, according to court documents.
Le was remembered during a vigil held Friday in Oakland as a decorated officer, husband and son who loved the city. His family, friends and colleagues said he dedicated his working and free time to the community.
“Officer Le was hardworking, dependable, driven by a desire to keep his neighbors safe,” said California Attorney General Rob Bonta.
Le was born in Vietnam in 1987 and grew up in the Bay Area. Everyone who knew him said he could light up a room with laughter, adding that he was always upbeat and positive.
His brother-in-law recalled a conversation Le had with Le's mother about his wife Sarah.
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“In a recent call that Tuan made, he told her that if anything should happen to him, he wants to make sure that Sarah is taken care of. He persevered in working hard for his family,” said Kenny Phung, Le’s brother-in-law.
Le graduated from Oakland’s police academy in 2020 and devoted his career to trying to bridge the gap between his community and law enforcement.
Two men charged with murder in the death of Le appeared in court last week, but didn’t enter pleas.
Meanwhile, a fourth man was also arrested in connection with last week’s burglary.
Le is the 54th Oakland police officer to die in the line of duty and the first killed in nearly 15 years.
“Nothing can exchange for my nephew Tuan’s life,” said his uncle, Steve Le. “Officer Tuan Le has gone too young and left behind a lot of his unfinished goals, dreams, and his family behind.”
Crucibles were set off in honor of office Le, whose family said had a fascination with fire.
They say much like the eternal flame, his legacy will endure.
“I know this is not how it was supposed to end but you can rest easy. You have given us hope, you have given us love, you held the line. You are a true hero,” said Chief Allison.
