Dallas police veteran dies after in‑flight medical emergency: "This is a devastating loss"
Calling the loss devastating for the agency, Dallas Police Chief Daniel C. Comeaux announced Wednesday that a veteran officer died after suffering a medical emergency while off‑duty on an airplane en route to Europe.
Senior Corporal Christopher Blow, who had served the department since 2013, was pronounced dead after the in‑flight medical emergency, Comeaux said.
Sources tell CBS News Texas' J.D. Miles that the officer recently underwent back surgery.
Blow was most recently assigned to the department's Vice Unit, the chief said.
Officer remembered for his service
In a social media message, Comeaux asked the public to keep Blow's family and loved ones in their thoughts.
"It is with profound sadness that I share the loss of one of our own," Comeaux said. "... This is a devastating loss for our department. Senior Corporal Blow committed his career to serving the people of Dallas, and his absence will be deeply felt by his colleagues, friends, and all who had the privilege of working alongside him."
Dallas Police Association President Sean Pease said the organization is "deeply saddened" by the officer's passing while he was en route to Europe to see his wife and children.
According to Pease, Blow "proudly served his country" in the U.S. Marine Corps before joining the Dallas Police Department more than a decade ago.
"He was a respected officer whose commitment to this city and his fellow officers will not be forgotten," Pease said in a statement. "This is a heartbreaking loss for our department."
Association offering support to family
Pease said the Dallas Police Association will provide financial assistance to his family. For members of the public who wish to help, contact the Dallas Police Association at info@dallaspa.org.
"On behalf of the Dallas Police Association, we extend our deepest condolences and will continue to stand with his loved ones," Pease said.
CBS News Texas will provide updates as more information becomes available.
