Funeral service held for LAPD Officer Valentin Martinez, first officer to die of complications from COVID-19

Los Angeles Police Department officers, family and friends attended the funeral of Officer Valentin Martinez, the agency’s first sworn employee to die of complications from COVID-19. A memory service was held Thursday at Forest Lawn Hollywood Hills’ Hall of Liberty. Martinez, 45, was a 13-year veteran of the LAPD and is presumed to have contracted the coronavirus while on duty. He he died on July 24, leaving behind his mother, Maria Martinez, his siblings and his domestic partner, Megan Flynn, who is pregnant with their twins. A Val Martinez Memorial Fund has been established for the family.

LAPD Officer Valentin Martinez’s flag-covered coffin is carried into Forest Lawn Hollywood Hills.

(Al Seib / Los Angeles Times)

A photo of Officer Valentin Martinez at the memorial service.

(Al Seib / Los Angeles Times)

A bagpiper leads the funeral procession.

(Al Seib / Los Angeles Times)

An officer wipes a tear during the service.

(Al Seib / Los Angeles Times)

A flag honoring Officer Valentin Martinez is folded.

(Al Seib / Los Angeles Times)

Mourners embrace at the memorial service.

(Al Seib / Los Angeles Times)

L.A. Police Chief Michel Moore holds the flag to present to Megan Flynn, Martinez’s partner.

(Al Seib / Los Angeles Times)

Chief Michel Moore presents the flag to Megan Flynn.

(Al Seib / Los Angeles Times)

Los Angeles Mayor Eric Garcetti consoles Maria Martinez, the officer’s mother.

(Al Seib / Los Angeles Times)

Officer Martinez’s coffin is carried after the service.

(Al Seib / Los Angeles Times)