City renames Carolina Park to honor fallen officer

Carolina Park is now Officer David Ortiz Park.

In an effort to rename Lower Valley park, the Recreation Advisory Board obtained 126 signatures to honor late Officer David Ortiz, who passed away early last year.

On March 10, 2016, Ortiz was hit from behind while stopped at a red light in the intersection of Lee Trevino and Vista Del Sol. The impact caused both vehicles to catch flame, Ortiz flew forward hitting the car in front of him. He was rushed to the hospital where he died four days later from his injuries.

During the renaming ceremony, Raymond Ortiz Jr., Ortiz’s eldest brother called it a “joyous moment,” crediting his mother Herlinda Ortiz, City Rep. Lily Limón, and the City Council’s approval for their hard work.

When asked how she felt about the park being renamed after her son, Herlinda Ortiz said, “I am so happy, what can I say? I’m so very very happy, proud of the community, of my officers, all my officers in blue, I am so proud of my son, all this is for you, mijo.”

You can visit “Officer David Ortiz Park” at 563 North Carolina Drive.