Messages of Condolence

LOS ANGELES -- Attorney General Kamala D. Harris today issued the following statement on the passing of Nelson Mandela:

“The world has lost a great leader with the passing of Nelson Mandela. He commanded an unwavering fight to end apartheid in South Africa, and his resolve inspired generations of leaders around the world to fight against inequality.

He is a hero who led with grace and compassion. His spirit will live on in the hearts and minds of those who continue the fight for justice.” 

LAGUNA BEACH - Attorney General Kamala D. Harris today released the following statement on the death of Laguna Beach Police Officer Jon Coutchie.

“Officer Coutchie’s death is a tragic loss. I extend my deepest condolences to his family, friends and colleagues in the Laguna Beach Police Department. The people of California will always remember and honor his service.”

SAN FRANCISCO -- Attorney General Kamala D. Harris today expressed her condolences to the family, friends and colleagues of Sergeant Gilbert Cortez. Sergeant Cortez and his K-9 partner, Mattie, died yesterday in the line of duty.

“Sergeant Cortez’ death is a tragic loss and his service and sacrifice to the people of California will never be forgotten,” said Attorney General Harris. “My thoughts and prayers are with his loved ones and the dedicated men and women of the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation.”

SAN FRANCISCO -- Attorney General Kamala D. Harris expressed her condolences to the family, friends and colleagues of two members of the Santa Cruz Police Department, who died last night in the line of duty:

“On behalf of the California Department of Justice, I extend my deepest sympathies to the families of Sergeant Loran "Butch" Baker and Detective Elizabeth Butler. These dedicated law enforcement professionals, who died in brave service to the people of California, will never be forgotten. My thoughts and prayers are with their loved ones, and with the Santa Cruz Police Department.”

SAN FRANCISCO -- Attorney General Kamala D. Harris issued a statement on yesterday's events in Big Bear:

"Law enforcement suffered another tragic loss---a dedicated sheriff's deputy was killed while performing the highest act of bravery. This officer, as well as the officer who was wounded, displayed extraordinary courage in confronting an armed killer. My thoughts and prayers are with each member of California's law enforcement family touched by these tragedies, particularly the families and friends of the fallen," said Attorney General Harris.

"I applaud our law enforcement agencies' swift and coordinated response to this crisis. Through the professionalism and hard work of dozens of law enforcement agencies across California, the manhunt is over and the people of California are safer. I want to extend my appreciation to Los Angeles Police Chief Charlie Beck, Irvine Police Chief David Maggard, Riverside Police Chief Sergio Diaz, and San Bernardino Sheriff John McMahon for their leadership."

Attorney General Harris today attended the funeral services for Riverside police officer Michael Crain.

SAN FRANCISCO -- Attorney General Kamala D. Harris expressed her condolences to the family, friends and colleagues of the Riverside police officer who died in the line of duty today:

"Officer Michael Crain’s death is a senseless loss," Attorney General Harris said. "His service and sacrifice will never be forgotten. Our hearts go out to his family and friends, and to the Riverside Police Department."

Michael Crain, 34, was an 11-year veteran of the Riverside Police Department and a decorated U.S. Marine veteran.

SACRAMENTO -- Attorney General Kamala D. Harris expressed her condolences to the family, friends and colleagues of Officer Kevin Tonn of the Galt Police Department, who died in the line of duty today:

“Officer Kevin Tonn’s death is a tragic loss that reminds us of the risks that law enforcement officers take every day to keep us safe,” Attorney General Harris said. “His service and sacrifice will never be forgotten. Our hearts go out to Officer Tonn’s family and friends, and to the Galt Police Department.”

California Attorney General Kamala D. Harris today issued the following statement on the passing of Mervyn Dymally:

"I am tremendously saddened to hear of the passing of my friend, former Congressman and Lieutenant Governor Mervyn Dymally. Representative Dymally was a true role model for generations of Californians, not least because of his barrier-breaking legacy as one of the first persons of color to serve at the state and federal levels of our great nation. His lifelong commitment to justice during his time in Congress, the state legislature and the Lieutenant Governorship of California will continue to inspire us as we work to further the vision of equality that he championed for more than five decades. My prayers are with his wife, Alice, daughter Lynn and son Mark during this difficult time."

SAN FRANCSICO - Attorney General Kamala D. Harris expressed her condolences to the family of Officer Kenyon Youngstrom who died today.

“I extend my deepest condolences to the family, friends, and colleagues of California Highway Patrol Officer Kenyon Youngstrom. He gave his life to protect the public and the people of California will always remember and honor this sacrifice.”

"Willis Edwards always found the joy and beauty in people.  He was exuberant in his infectious belief that being present and involved in the electoral process makes a difference.  Willis Edwards was a dear friend and an inspiration."