Memories, tributes and words of support flood social media after word of Officer Mario Herrera’s passing

LINCOLN, Neb. (KLKN) – An air of sadness swept over Lincoln Sunday morning as word of Mario Herrera’s passing spread. He was shot in the line of duty on August 26 but wasn’t able to survive the injuries and passed away at 3:30am Sunday, surrounded by his family.

Flowers were put on a police vehicle outside of headquarters in downtown.

Flowers rest on a Lincoln Police Department cruiser hours after word of Investigator Mario Herrera’s passing.

The outpouring of support is strong on social media.

I’m shocked and saddened by the death of Officer Mario Herrera: an honorable man, a loving father, a protector of justice. He died for us, for the safety of our community. May God grant him eternal peace.

— Jeff Fortenberry (@JeffFortenberry) September 7, 2020

Mario was a great man, great father, great husband, and a brother that will be missed. God Bless Mario, his family, and all of our brothers and sisters at the Lincoln Police Department. https://t.co/5FHUr4ttn7

— LSO Deputies (@LSO_Deputy) September 7, 2020

Flags will fly at half-staff to honor the passing of Lincoln Police Department Investigator Mario Herrera. Flags will fly at half-staff starting immediately and until sunset on September 11, 2020.

Please RT to spread the word.

— Gov. Pete Ricketts (@GovRicketts) September 7, 2020

Sadness doesn’t begin to describe fully our community’s sense of loss with the passing of Inv. Mario Herrera. Our hearts are with his wife, Carrie, and their four children. We remain forever grateful for their family’s profound sacrifice in service to keeping our community safe.

— Leirion Gaylor Baird (@MayorLeirion) September 7, 2020

Our hearts are heavy today with the news of our fellow brother’s passing. Our sincerest thoughts and prayers go out to our #LPD family and Officer Herrera’s family. Rest In Peace brother Mario. Thank you for your service. #LFRlovesLPD @CityOfLincoln @Lincoln_Police pic.twitter.com/AJV7mYBWpI

— LNKFireRescue (@LNKFireRescue) September 7, 2020

RELATED: Investigator Mario Herrera passes away after being shot in the line of duty August 26

Heartbreaking.

We mourn the passing of Investigator Herrera and send our condolences for his family, @Lincoln_Police, and all who had the privilege of knowing Mario.

His life of service will never be forgotten. https://t.co/gEpxOOkBW6

— Nebraska State Patrol (@NEStatePatrol) September 7, 2020

In honor of Inv Mario Herrera #1205. pic.twitter.com/huvpTPN7uq

— LPD Southeast Team (@LPD_Southeast) September 7, 2020

God has truly chosen a great protector. Mario Herrera E.O.W 9/7/2020. pic.twitter.com/yWxgHwE57o

— Tatum Hilger (@HilgerTatum) September 7, 2020

Please pray for my cousins the Herrera family right now.

My Uncle Mario was a wonderful, caring man who lived with so much love in his heart. We will miss him so much. https://t.co/vdjU95Sewr

— Logan Wood (@WoodLogan87) September 7, 2020