This is the third in a series of three caches dedicated to Tucson Police Officer Erik Hite (Badge Number 46584). March 14, 1965 – June 2, 2008.
Shortly after graduating high school in California, Erik followed his dream of becoming a police officer by enlisting in the Air Force as a Security Policeman. He served his country in that capacity over the next twenty years, being stationed at Air Force bases around the world. When he retired from the Air Force at Davis Monthan Air Force Base, he joined the Tucson Police Department to continue his dream.
On June 1, 2008 Officer Hite joined in an hour long cross town pursuit of a suspect who had already shot Pima County Deputy Sheriff Eric Cervantez. The suspect made a sudden U-Turn and shot Erik who was still in his patrol car. The pursuit was continued by other officers and the suspect shot Deputy Tory Schwartz before finally giving himself up. The two Deputies recovered, but Erik never regained consciousness and died the following day.
Located on the property of Saguaro Canyon Church where Erik and his family attended church (His family still does), you will find the “Erik Hite Family Park”. Paid for by donations in the form of purchased brick pavers. If you wish to donate and have a brick engraved, inquire at the church office. We have permission from the pastor to be on church property, but please limit your hunt to daylight hours.
While hunting these three caches, please take some time to contemplate the sacrifices police officers make daily on our behalf. Also, take some time to pray for Erik Hite and the family he left behind.
And don’t forget to thank a police officer for the work they do.
Visit the other Fallen Heroes geocaches:
Fallen Heroes 1
Fallen Heroes 2
Fallen Heroes 3
Fallen Heroes 4
Fallen Heroes 5
Fallen Heroes 6
Fallen Heroes 7
Fallen Heroes 8
Fallen Heroes 9