Father of fallen officer calls him a ‘protector’ who ‘loved law enforcement’

SAN ANTONIO (KTSA News) – A huge U.S. flag held up by two San Antonio Fire Department ladder trucks waved in the breeze as law enforcement motorcycles and patrol cars arrived at Community Bible Church for the funeral of a fallen officer. Bagpipes played as family, friends and fellow brothers and sisters in blue entered the church to say their final goodbyes to San Antonio School District officer Cliff Martinez.

Albert Martinez shared memories of his son’s thoughtfulness and his willingness to help others in their time of need.

“He was a protector and he loved law enforcement,” said Albert Martinez.

SAISD Detective Cliff Martinez was killed just days before Christmas while working an off-duty security job at a Southeast Side IHOP. He was breaking up a fight when he was run over by the suspects.

“I was proud of my son, knowing that he was there protecting the people that were in that restaurant,” his father said. He also urged officers and firefighters to express their love to their families and friends everyday.

The detective’s brother, who lives in California, told the crowd his older brother, his only sibling, always looked out for him. Dennis Martinez said Cliff was planning a trip to the West Coast to visit him. He also thanked emergency responders for their support during this difficult time.

“The sacrifice that you give us just touches my heart in a way that I don’t think any of us can really imagine,” said Dennis. “I love you guys and you are my brothers and you are my sisters and I don’t feel so alone.”