Police Officer David Lee VanBuskirk, Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department, Nevada

Police Officer David Lee VanBuskirk

Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department, Nevada

End of Watch Tuesday, July 23, 2013

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David Lee VanBuskirk

Police Officer Dave VanBuskirk died after falling during a night-time aerial rescue operation of a hiker on Mount Charleston.

The hiker had become disoriented and was stranded on a rock ledge near Mary Jane Falls. A Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department helicopter located the hiker and lowered Officer VanBuskirk to the location.

Officer VanBuskirk, a member of the Search and Rescue Section, attached the hiker to the hoist. As the helicopter began to raise the two to the helicopter, Officer VanBuskirk became detached from the line and fell to the canyon floor below.

Officer VanBuskirk had served with the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department for 13 years. He is survived by his wife.

Bio

Age 36
Tour 13 years, 9 months
Badge 6482

Incident Details

Cause Fall
Incident Date Monday, July 22, 2013

rescue

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Most Recent Reflection

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Officer VanBuskirk,
On today, the 10th anniversary of your death I would just like to say thank you for your service and sacrifice for the citizens of Las Vegas. And t your Family and loved ones, I wish to extend my deepest sympathy.

R.I.P.
USBP

Anonymous
United States Border Patrol

July 23, 2023