Thank You To Our Community

On September 15, 2021, Officer Blaize Madrid-Evans made the ultimate sacrifice to serve and protect our community. At just 22, he was beginning his career in law enforcement and had a lifetime ahead of him that was tragically cut short in the line of duty. In support of Officer Madrid-Evans’ family, the Independence Police Foundation made an online pledge to raise $10,000 to assist with expenses. Response from the community of Independence and surrounding cities was phenomenal, allowing the Foundation to fulfil its pledge of support and then some, with over $30,000 in online donations being distributed to the family and additional funds to cover Officer Madrid-Evans’ expenses. Special thanks to donors including Hy-Vee, Price Chopper and Sonshine Sports Apparel for their contributions in honor of Officer Madrid-Evans.

The Independence Police Foundation, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, proudly served as a conduit of the community's appreciation for the dedication and sacrifice of Officer Madrid-Evans. “As a former Independence Police Chief, I am humbled by the outpouring of support for Officer Madrid-Evans and our Independence Police Department,” stated Gary George, Executive Director of the Independence Police Foundation. “A core purpose of the Foundation is to assist IPD employees and immediate family members with economic hardships due to death, disability, critical illness or other catastrophic event. With the support of our community, the Foundation is able to fulfill this part of our mission in this incredibly difficult time.”

The community response is reverberating throughout the Independence Police Department and community of first responders. “The support being shown for Officer Madrid-Evans, our officers and all first responders has been uplifting,” stated Independence Chief of Police, Brad Halsey. “As you can imagine, the loss of Officer Madrid-Evans has been devastating for all of us. We are extremely grateful for the support and generosity extended to his family and the IPD.” All of us here at the Independence Police Foundation extend our sincere gratitude for the support shown for Officer Madrid-Evans and all our IPD brothers and sisters in blue. Thank you.