Officers Killed in the Line of Duty
Robert Joe Mata
- 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
Rememberance
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.
Heroism. Valor. In memoriam.
Every day, the members of the LAPD put their lives on the line. We remember and honor the officers who have gone above and beyond the call of duty who have lost their lives while serving the people of the City of Los Angeles.