Family and colleagues gathered on Friday to honor the memory and service of Officer Lauretha Vaird, who was tragically killed during a bank robbery almost 30 years ago. The ceremony included a street renaming at the corner of the 4700 block of Rising Sun Avenue, which is now known as “Officer Lauretha A. Vaird Way.”
Councilwoman Quetcy Lozada joined Police Commissioner Kevin Bethel and City Council President Kenyatta Johnson, along with some of Vaird’s family members, for the heartfelt event. Officer Vaird was killed on January 2, 1996, while responding to a bank robbery at the PNC Bank located at 4710 Rising Sun Avenue. She holds the distinction of being the first female Philadelphia police officer to be killed in the line of duty.
A dedicated officer and a single mother of two, Vaird is remembered not only for her bravery but also for her commitment to mentoring new recruits and her positive influence in the community. In her honor, the Vaird Foundation was established by her fellow officers and continues to support mentoring and college assistance programs.
“The renaming of this street serves to honor her legacy and ensure her story is never forgotten,” said Councilwoman Lozada in a press announcement.
Philadelphia officers lined up in tribute during the ceremony, and a portrait titled “The Guardian in Blue: Lauretha Vaird” by Jonny Castro was also featured to commemorate her dedication and service.
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https://www.phillytrib.com/news/local_news/street-renaming-ceremony-for-officer-lauretha-vaird/article_a3891851-8e4e-45b9-a2fb-43de5034ce56.html
