Former Burbank police cadet laid to rest in Glendale
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Police officers from throughout the state gathered Wednesday in Glendale to pay respects to a fallen Bakersfield police officer with strong ties to Burbank.
More than 100 sworn and civilian employees representing Burbank and Glendale attended the services, officials said.
David Nelson, 26, was killed early Friday morning after his patrol car crashed during a vehicle pursuit two years and two days after joining the Bakersfield force. Before that, he spent four years working as a cadet for the Burbank force.
PHOTOS: Bakersfield police officer, former Burbank cadet laid to rest
A roughly 30-car procession escorted Nelson’s body to Forest Lawn Memorial Park in Glendale Wednesday afternoon. Los Angeles police provided air support for the flyover, as well as horse-mounted units, bagpipe players and motor escorts.
Glendale and Burbank police were also involved in the procession and played a significant role in helping the Bakersfield agency plan the services.
Nelson had deep ties to the Media City, having grown up in the city and attending Burbank High School, where he played water polo. He also worked as a swim instructor and lifeguard for the city’s parks and recreation department.
Colleagues remembered Nelson’s energy, infectious smile and hard-working attitude.
“He would get stuff done,” said Burbank Police Lt. John Dilibert.
For Burbank Police Capt. Mike Albanese, a 43-year law enforcement veteran, the shock and heartache that comes with learning of a fellow officer’s death never subsides.
“The reality is it’s more painful now than it was 40 years ago because you understand how devastating it is for the family, for the community and for the law enforcement community,” he said, adding that Nelson had a full career ahead of him. “It still rocks your world.”
After the graveside service, Bakersfield Police Sgt. Uriel Pacheco called Nelson a trustworthy and dedicated police officer who “showed great professionalism and excelled.”
“Our hearts are heavy,” he said, before thanking those who traveled from all over the country to honor Nelson’s life.
Sergeants from the Burbank police department were tasked on Friday morning, hours after his passing, with notifying Nelson’s family of his death.
Per police, Nelson’s family declined to be interviewed.