SFPD Marks 6th Anniversary Of Slain Officer's Death

SAN FRANCISCO (CBS SF) -- San Francisco police were quietly marking the sixth anniversary this weekend of the fatal shooting of Officer Bryan Tuvera, who was killed while trying to apprehend an escapee from a state correctional work camp.

Tuvera, 28, was among the officers attempting to detain Marlon Ruff, 33, on Dec. 22, 2006 in the Sunset District, according to police.

After police spotted Ruff on 25th Avenue, he fled into a home near 25th Avenue and Lawton Street and went into the garage. When police tried to move in, he opened fire, striking Tuvera.

Another officer returned fire and killed Ruff at the scene. Tuvera, a four-and-a-half year veteran of the police department, died at San Francisco General Hospital the next day.

In previous years, police have held candlelight vigils and walks in the neighborhood where Tuvera was shot. Last year's vigil, however, was the last such event to be held in Tuvera's honor.

While the department continues to honor Tuvera, members of the public wishing to pay their respects can visit the Community Room dedicated in his name at the Taraval Police Station on Sunday between 3 p.m. and 8 p.m. A memorial garden was also created at McCoppin Square Park in Tuvera's honor on Nov. 19, 2012, and the public can visit that garden during regular park hours.

The Taraval Police Station is located at 2345 24th Ave.

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