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West Palm Beach, Fla. – A heart-wrenching accident on Southern Boulevard resulted in the deaths of two Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office (PBSO) deputies and left a third critically injured. The incident unfolded Thursday morning near Loxahatchee, where the deputies performed traffic enforcement duties.
The fallen deputies, Corporal Luis Paez and Deputy Sheriff Ralph “Butch” Waller lost their lives while assisting a colleague, Deputy Ignacio “Dan” Diaz, whose motorcycle had stalled. Deputy Diaz remains hospitalized in critical but stable condition following emergency surgery.
Details of the Fatal Crash
The crash occurred at 9:29 a.m. in the 18000 block of Southern Boulevard, just west of Seminole Pratt Whitney Road, near Lion Country Safari.
Sheriff Ric Bradshaw said the deputies had been conducting radar traffic enforcement. Deputy Diaz’s motorcycle experienced a potential battery issue, prompting him to call for assistance.
As the three deputies waited on the grassy shoulder of the road, a Pennsylvania woman traveling eastbound swerved to avoid a slower vehicle in the center lane. She lost control and veered off the road, striking all three deputies and sending them airborne.
Other officers already en route witnessed the crash and immediately called for backup. All three deputies were rushed to St. Mary’s Medical Center.
Unfortunately, Corporal Paez and Deputy Waller succumbed to their injuries, while Deputy Diaz underwent surgery and remains in the ICU. Another surgery is scheduled for Friday.
Honoring Dedicated Public Servants
- Corporal Luis Paez: A veteran with 36 years of service, Paez began his career with PBSO in 1988. He worked as a Corrections Deputy before moving to Road Patrol and served as a motor deputy for over 20 years.
- Deputy Ralph “Butch” Waller: Waller joined PBSO in 2008 after the merger with the Royal Palm Beach Police Department. He dedicated 18 years to the Motor Unit, earning respect for his commitment and professionalism.
- Deputy Ignacio “Dan” Diaz: Diaz has served PBSO since 2004 and has been part of the Motor Unit for more than a decade.
A Community in Mourning
The tragic deaths of Paez and Waller have left the Palm Beach County community and law enforcement agencies devastated. Sheriff Bradshaw reflected on the loss, saying, “When a deputy dies, a piece of the community dies with them. It’s tough.”
A solemn procession was held to honor the fallen deputies. A motorcade, escorted by dozens of law enforcement officers, transported their bodies from St. Mary’s Medical Center to the Palm Beach County Medical Examiner’s Office. A giant American flag, draped from a Palm Beach County Fire Rescue ladder truck, was a poignant symbol of respect as the procession passed.
Investigation and Road Closure Updates
The Florida Highway Patrol is leading the investigation into the crash. Preliminary findings indicate the driver, who sustained minor injuries, was not impaired. Southern Boulevard was closed for several hours after the crash but reopened to traffic by early afternoon.
Call for Community Support
PBSO has asked the community to keep the deputies and their families in their thoughts during this trying time. Funeral arrangements for Corporal Paez and Deputy Waller are underway, with services expected next week. This tragedy underscores the daily risks faced by law enforcement officers and the profound loss felt by the community when heroes make the ultimate sacrifice.
