One Year Later, Lincoln Blood Drive Honors Fallen Officer

A community blood drive is underway to honor fallen Lincoln Police Officer Mario Herrera in Lincoln. The blood drive began today, August 26, and goes until September 7th.

Investigator Herrera was shot one year ago this week and lived until September 7. A year later, Lincoln Police Department and Fire and Rescue are holding a blood drive during the same period, called ‘12 Days of Hope.’

Herrera was given many blood transfusions in those 12 days. Erin Spilker with the Lincoln Police Department said the community helped during that time.

“I think what it really did for us was we were falling apart at that moment,” she said. “The worst case scenario was happening and that community support is really what built us back up.”

Spilker said the people of Lincoln and surrounding areas have the same opportunity now, to help more people who need blood. She said this year’s blood drive is somber but also a celebration of Herrera’s life.

Spilker said Herrera’s final days were a chance for him and his loved ones to be together and express their love.

“Those 12 days are a gift,” she said. “Some people don’t get those 12 days with a family member before they pass.”

Lincoln Police Department and Fire and Rescue have held a blood drive competition annually for more than a decade. This year’s drive presented an opportunity for the two departments to work together.

LPD’s final day of last year’s blood drive was on the same day Herrera was shot. Spilker said some of that blood may have been used to help Officer Herrera.

Even though this year’s drive is about half as long as normal, Spilker hoped the turnout will be larger than most years.

To donate, go to Lincoln Fire and Rescue Station #15.