On Friday, the Dallas Police Department unveiled a portrait honoring fallen Officer Darron Burks, celebrating his legacy of service while reaffirming its commitment to supporting his family nearly two years after he was killed in the line of duty.
Department leaders, officers, family members, and friends gathered at the South Central Division station for the ceremony, where speakers remembered Burks as a dedicated officer, educator, and mentor whose impact extended far beyond the badge.
Police Chief Comeaux Emily Capetillo
"It's a sad moment, of course, but it also shows the relationship that we have with the family, that we will continue to have with the family," Dallas Police Chief Daniel Comeaux said after the ceremony. "The connection that Officer Burks will have with the city forever."
Comeaux, who was serving with the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) in Houston when Burks was killed, said the loss resonated nationwide among law enforcement officers and members of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, of which both men are members.
"Anytime a law enforcement officer is lost anywhere in the United States, we all feel it," he said. “The portrait will serve as a permanent reminder of Burks' sacrifice…he will forever be remembered, honored and respected, and the portrait will stand there forever."
Burks' mother alongside her son Anthony HardenEmily Capetillo
During the ceremony, Burks' mother, Cherie Jeffrey, shared memories of her son, describing him as a loving son who never missed a day without calling or texting to check on her.
"He loved people," she said. "He didn't care who you were, he didn't care where you came from, he loved people."
She said Burks often introduced her to young people who needed encouragement, reflecting the compassion that defined both his years as an educator and his service as a police officer.
Comeaux praised Jeffrey’s resilience, saying she continues to inspire him despite her loss.
"That's one strong lady," he said. "Every time I talk to her, she uplifts me."
Friday's ceremony came during an especially difficult week for the department, which has also responded to three officer-involved shootings in recent days. While unrelated to Burks' death, the events underscored the dangers officers continue to face and gave added meaning to the department's tribute.
"We will always stand by them," Comeaux said of Burks' family. "We'll be there. And when I say forever, it's forever."
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