OLIVEHURST, Calif. — The Rio Linda community is grieving the tragic loss of Osmar Rodarte, a 2016 graduate of Rio Linda High School, who was killed in the line of duty while serving as a Marysville Police Department officer.
Officer Rodarte, a two-year veteran of the Marysville Police Department and a U.S. Army veteran, was fatally wounded during a multi-agency operation targeting transnational drug trafficking organizations.
Details of the Incident:
On Wednesday morning, multiple law enforcement agencies executed 20 search warrants across Yuba, Sutter, Tehama, and Butte counties, following a years-long investigation. One of these warrants led officers to a residence on Kestrel Court in Olivehurst around 7:50 a.m.
According to Yuba County Sheriff Wendell Anderson, a SWAT team entered the home, resulting in an exchange of gunfire between officers and an individual inside. Officer Rodarte and the suspect were both struck.
Officer Rodarte was transported to Adventist Health and Rideout hospital, where he succumbed to his injuries. The suspect was pronounced dead at the scene.
Yuba County District Attorney Clint Curry confirmed that another individual present in the home is being treated as a witness.
Remembering Osmar Rodarte:
During a press conference, officials described Officer Rodarte as a “true hero,” a father, a brother, and a friend. Marysville Police emphasized his dedication and service, calling him a “friend, a father, an Army veteran, and a true hero.”
“Obviously, this tragedy has rocked our small community,” Sheriff Anderson said.
California Assemblymember James Gallagher expressed his condolences, stating, “Our hearts and our prayers are with this young officer’s family and our local law enforcement family.”
Marysville Mayor Chris Branscum shared a poignant moment of officers praying for Officer Rodarte at the hospital.
Investigation and Community Response:
District Attorney Curry revealed that the operation followed the seizure of hundreds of pounds of narcotics, including methamphetamine and fentanyl. He emphasized the danger posed by the targeted individuals, stating, “These were major players moving poison through our communities.”
Gov. Gavin Newsom has ordered flags at the Capitol and Capitol Annex Swing Space to be flown at half-staff in Officer Rodarte’s honor.
“Our thoughts are with the Marysville community and Officer Rodarte’s family as we mourn his sudden and tragic loss,” Newsom said in a statement. “His service and dedication to the safety of the community will never be forgotten.”
Honoring Officer Rodarte:
A procession honoring Officer Rodarte was held Thursday morning, beginning at Lakeside Chapel in Marysville and proceeding to Placer County for an autopsy.
The Marysville Police Department is expected to release details regarding memorial services and opportunities for the community to honor Officer Rodarte’s legacy. They have expressed gratitude for the outpouring of support and asked for patience as they navigate this difficult time.
The loss of Officer Osmar Rodarte, a Rio Linda native, highlights the sacrifice and dedication of those who serve and protect.
