How you can help the families of two PBSO officers killed in a crash

The Palm Beach County Police Benevolent Association is launching a fundraising campaign after two deputies died Thursday.

The Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office Deputies’ Union said it is collecting donations through this link to help the families after their loss.

John Kazanjian of the Police Benevolent Association told WPTV Corporal Luis Paez and Deputy Sheriff Ralph “Butch” Waller that they were the sole breadwinners for their families. He said they have already given each family a check for $77,000.

“It seems like it always happens around the holidays,” Kazanjian said. “Now we’re going through Thanksgiving and Christmas. I feel sorry for that family.”

He said he knew Corporal Luis Paez after working for the sheriff’s office for more than 30 years. He said he enjoyed riding his motorcycle.

“As long as I knew him, he always rode his motorcycle,” he said. “…He had a passion for horse riding. All three of them did. They will all be truly missed.”

Kazanjian said he has Deputy Ignacio “Dan” Diaz constantly on his mind. According to the sheriff’s office, Diaz remains fighting for his life and is in critical but stable condition.

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