When Donna Doss responded to a call for assistance from a Texas Department of Public Safety trooper she didn’t hesitate to assist.
The mother-of-two, who had been a border patrol agent for nearly 16 years, worked as a resident agent, so was responsible for an entire region.
But tragically while attending the scene Donna was struck and killed by a passing vehicle.
Now, almost 500 people, including hundreds of law enforcement officers from across the country, gathered at a memorial ceremony to honor her.
Officers even walked her trusted horse down to her casket to remember his partner.
The 49-year-old was killed instantly when responding to the incident in Abilene on Feb. 2. An investigation into the crash has begun.
Protected the community
Donna is survived by her husband, father, mother, two-step children, sister, and two brothers.
Del Rio Sector Acting Chief Patrol Agent Matthew Hudak said, “Agent Doss died while performing her duty, protecting the community and the United States. Our heart, prayers, and support go out to Agent Doss’ family in this time of need,” he said in a statement.
Last night, while on duty, United States Border Patrol Agent Donna Doss lost her life in Abilene, Texas. Agent Doss of Class 569 served for nearly 16 years. On behalf of U.S. Customs and Border Protection, my deepest condolences go out to her family and loved ones. pic.twitter.com/QZx9CHlCrc
— Kevin McAleenan (@CBP_McAleenan) February 3, 2019
At her funeral Donna was remembered for being ambitious, determined and very proud of the badge she wore every day, according to the Washington Examiner.
El Centro Sector Chief Patrol Agent Gloria Chavez said, “Donna was very passionate about the job she did. She was very proud of her title, Border Patrol agent. She couldn’t believe she got to wear the uniform everyday, put the badge on.”
Fundraiser organized
One agent said the minute she showed up at a scene, “You knew everything was gonna be OK.”
The Border Patrol Agent Family Network has started a a fundraiser to help the Doss family. More than $17,000 has been raised in just nine days.
Our hearts are heavy to hear of the passing of Border Patrol Agent Donna Doss, who was killed in the line of duty last night. https://t.co/VLdzq63shu
— Rep. Jodey Arrington (@RepArrington) February 3, 2019
Donna was part of the Horse Patrol Unit and would often choose to go out with her horse alone and patrol the border rather than take a vehicle.
Officers led her horse down the aisle to her casket to say goodbye at the end of the ceremony.
https://twitter.com/Anna_Giaritelli/status/1094026776999874560
Please share to pay tribute to hero Donna Doss and all the people working tirelessly on the front line to keep our communities safe.
