BOONE, Iowa—The Boone Police Department posted information over the weekend on their Facebook page, reporting that Officer Mario Gonzalez had died in a fatal traffic accident:

It is with heavy hearts that we mourn the passing of Officer Mario Gonzalez.  While off duty, Mario was involved in a fatal traffic accident on November 20, 2021.  Mario was a full time officer with the Boone Police Department from August 2016 through October 2019 and remained a valuable part-time officer for the department since 2019.  Mario was also a proud member of the Iowa Army National Guard.  Most importantly, Mario was a husband and the father of two small children.  A memorial fund for the family will be established through Vision Bank.  All funds will go directly to the wife of Mario Gonzales to use as needed.  The family asks for privacy during this difficult time.  Please join us in praying for peace and strength for his family.

(contributed statement and photo, Boone PD)