U.S.

Boy named Detroit's police chief amid cancer fight dies

/ CBS/AP

DETROIT -- A 9-year-old boy who was named Detroit's honorary police chief for a day while fighting leukemia has died. 

Deputy Police Chief Rodney Johnson tells The Detroit News that Jayvon Felton died Monday at Children's Hospital in Detroit. The fourth-grader was diagnosed with leukemia in April.

Jayvon had always wanted to be a Detroit police officer, and his wish was granted on Jan. 31. 

Donning a blue SWAT uniform, embroidered with his name, he arrived at police headquarters by helicopter. He was greeted by classmates from Roberto Clemente Academy, police dogs and mascots that included the Detroit Tigers' Paws.

In a Jan. 31, 2014 file photo, Jayvon Felton, 9, flashes his badge after he was named Chief of Police for a day by Detroit Police Chief James Craig at Detroit Public Safety Headquarters in Detroit. AP Photo/Detroit News, David Coates
 That day, Detroit Chief James Craig said Jayvon's trip was a reminder, even for the most hardened officers, "how important every precious moment is." 

Jayvon's mother Amanda Clinkscales was emotional after her son was honored last month, CBS affiliate WWJ reported.

"Probably about a week ago, he said he just wants to be a regular boy again. And I told him you are a regular boy, what you have is not your fault we are going to get through it because God said so, and you'll be just fine and I love you. And thank everyone for all of this, thank you," she said.

Police say funeral arrangements are pending.


First published on February 25, 2014 / 9:36 AM EST

© 2014 CBS Interactive Inc. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. The Associated Press contributed to this report.

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