Robert Joe Mata

Tuesday, September 19, 2000

Mata, Robert Joe

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Rank: Police Officer

Serial Number: 32571

Division: Harbor

Location: John S. Gibson and Figueroa St.

Date Killed: Tuesday, September 19,
2000

Cause of Death: Traffic Collision

Bio: Officer Mata was killed in a single vehicle
accident while he responded to backup another officer who was
investigating a stolen vehicle.

During the response, Officer Mata lost control of his cruiser and
struck a utility pole on the driver's side. Officer Mata's partner
was injured in the accident and was freed by responding officers.
Rescue crews had to use the jaws of life to remove Officer Mata
from the cruiser. He was transported to a local hospital where he
was pronounced dead.

Officer Mata had been with the Los Angeles Police Department for
six years. He is survived by his wife, a recent graduate of the
Sheriff's academy, and his two young children.