SAN ANTONIO – In the hours after an unidentified gunman apparently killed a San Antonio police detective because of the badge he wore, the department is taking steps to make sure the men and women in blue are protected.
Just before noon Sunday, Det. Benjamin Marconi was gunned down outside Public Safety Headquarters while sitting in his car writing a traffic citation.
He was rushed to San Antonio Military Medical Center where he died a short time later.
SAPD spokesman Sgt. Jesse Salame said officers have the option of doubling up in patrol units and backup units would be automatically sent out to traffic stops. Uniformed officers are also standing guard at the substations, he said.
Related: Officials react to officer slaying
Marconi was a 20-year veteran of the department and a father of two from Floresville.
"Most families will be celebrating the holidays. SAPD will be burying one of its own because of an ultimate act of cowardice, but a suspect who will be caught and brought to justice," police chief William McManus said at a news conference.”
Related: History of SAPD officers killed in line of duty
The precautions will last indefinitely.