‘Eric’s light will never fade’ — Online tributes paid to Officer Eric Estrada by his family, actor Erik Estrada

TREMONTON, Utah (ABC4) — An obituary for Officer Eric Estrada, one of two Tremonton Garland Police officers killed in a shooting incident in Tremonton, was published by his family, and actor Erik Estrada posted a tribute to the fallen officer on social media.

Sgt. Lee Sorensen and Officer Eric Estrada were shot and killed while responding to a domestic violence call late Sunday night. A Box Elder County deputy, Mike Allred, was also injured alongside his K-9 Azula. Charges have now been filed against the alleged shooter Ryan Bate, and he had his initial court appearance Friday morning.

Estrada, aged 32, died on August 17. He was born in Logan Utah, and he was a lifelong Utah resident. He married his wife Brittney in 2014 in Hyrum, Utah, and they had two children together, Luka and Cienna. His children were “the light of his world.”

“Eric’s family always came first, and he cherished every moment spent with them—whether at home, traveling, or enjoying their favorite adventures together. Mexico held a special place in his heart, and he loved sharing its beauty with his loved ones,” his brother, Jesus Estrada, wrote in the obituary.

Estrada enjoyed activities like pickleball, bike riding, CrossFit, grilling, mowing his lawn, doing his hair, and taking walks with his “main man.” His favorite song was Bubbly by Colbie Caillat.

“Eric’s legacy is one of love, service, and compassion. He will be remembered as a devoted husband, loving father, loyal son, mama’s boy, and dedicated officer who put others before himself. His smile, his laughter, and his heart will forever live on in the lives of those who knew and loved him,” Jesus wrote.

Fittingly, Estrada was nicknamed “Chipz” after the actor Erik Estrada, who is best known for his role as Ponch on the police television series “CHiPs,” and today Erik Estrada posted a tribute to Officer Eric Estrada on his X.com account.

“There is a special kind of person that makes a 100% commitment regardless of if it puts them in harm’s way… someone who is willing to put it all on the line for others,” Erik Estrada wrote in his post.

He also posted links to Help A Hero campaigns benefitting families of Officer Estrada and Sgt. Sorensen and Deputy Mike Allred.

“For years, people have associated my name with a TV role I played as a police officer. But Officer Eric Estrada of Utah lived that role with courage and sacrifice. He’s the real hero. Please join me in supporting his family,” he said.

“God bless Eric Estrada, Sgt. Lee Sorensen may you rest in peace and to Deputy Mike Allred and K-9 Azula I wish you a speedy recovery. Thank you all for your service & sacrifice,” he concluded.

“Though his time with us was far too short, Eric’s light will never fade,” the obituary reads.

You can read Officer Estrada’s full obituary here.