Farmington Police Mourn Veteran Officer Pete Zajac After Suicide

The Farmington Police Department is mourning the loss of Officer Pete Zajac, a 15-year veteran who recently served as a school resource officer. Zajac, who was married with three children, died by suicide, a loss the department and local law enforcement community have publicly grieved. Messages of support and reminders about mental health resources have been shared by various police departments and organizations, emphasizing the heavy emotional burden that law enforcement officers carry. The department encouraged anyone struggling with mental health issues to contact the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline and highlighted additional support resources specific to veterans and first responders. This tragic event has sparked a broader conversation about mental health and the importance of seeking help within the law enforcement community and beyond. Additionally, the Vinton Police Department announced the death of their former chief, Herbert G. Cooley, who served for 11 years and retired after 45 years in law enforcement.