TAMPA, Fla. (WFLA)— The Tampa Police Department is rededicating Memorial Highway in honor of a police officer who lost her life in the line of duty in 2001.
A rededication ceremony of the “Master Police Officer Lois Marrero Memorial Highway” will occur on Monday, 25 years after her end of watch.
On July 6, 2001, MPO Marrero, a 19-year veteran of the department, was killed in the line of duty while searching for a bank robbery suspect.
According to TPD, in her final act of bravery, MPO Marrero became the first female officer in the department’s history to lose her life while protecting and serving the community.
Master Police Officer Lois Marrero (Credit: Tampa Police Department)
The “Master Police Officer Lois Marrero Memorial Highway” will encompass a part of W. Kennedy Blvd between Lois Ave and Dale Mabry Hwy.
The designation was enacted by the Florida Legislature through CS/CS/SB-78 and was signed into law by Gov. Ron DeSantis in 2020.
“Her unwavering commitment to the safety of all those in Tampa remains a defining legacy of her career and an inspiration to the entire department,” The Tampa Police Department said.
The ceremony will begin at 11:30 a.m. at MGT of America.
Mayor Jane Castor, Chief Lee Bercaw, and MPO Marrero’s sister, Brenda Marrero, will speak at the ceremony before a memorial sign unveiling.
“This brief ceremony will serve as a solemn moment for the department and the public to reflect upon MPO Marrero’s life, her dedication, and the lasting impact she made on the City of Tampa,” TPD said.
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