WACO, Texas — The Waco Police Department is mourning the loss of one of its own.
Waco PD announced on Tuesday, Aug. 27 that Officer Jesus "Jesse" Cano had died.
Cano grew up in Waco, according to the department, and was a graduate of Waco High School and the University of Texas at Austin. Cano also served in the Texas National Guard for several years, receiving "numerous" military decorations during his service, said Waco PD.
Cano joined Waco PD as a Dispatch Team member in March 2016 and was soon hired as a Police Recruit, graduating from the 70th Waco Police Academy and being commissioned as an officer in November 2016, said the department.
Waco PD said Cano's life was defined by a "commitment to service", serving the same neighborhood he grew up in by finding and arresting those who caused "havoc" in the community, mentoring youth both on and off duty and being a "harbinger of justice" on behalf of crime victims.
During his time with the department, Cano was involved with the Blue Guardian Organization, served as a SWAT Operator and mentored new Officers as a Field Training Officer, said Waco PD.
Cano also reportedly received the Certificate of Civic Achievement in 2019 and was nominated for Officer of the Year in 2022. According to the department, Cano was poised to be promoted to Sergeant before his death.
"Jesse was a devoted son, brother, husband and cherished friend," Waco PD said in a post on social media commemorating Cano. "Words cannot express how much he will be missed."
The 100 Club Heart of Texas is collecting donations for Cano's wife. To donate, visit the organization's website and click the "donate" button. List the name "Tammika" in the "write a note" message, or send donations to 100 Club Heart of Texas, P.O. Box 21990, Waco, Texas 76702.
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