The City of Reno and the Reno Police Department are mourning the loss of a Reno Police Detective who recently passed away after serving the community for nearly 13 years.

Detective Thomas Lopey was a dedicated public servant, according to a release from the City of Reno and the RPD.

“Tom was the kind of police officer every department hopes to have, and every officer is fortunate to work beside,” said Reno Police Chief Corey Solferino. “I had the privilege of knowing and working with him throughout much of my career. He was a dedicated detective, a respected leader, and, most importantly, a genuinely good man who cared deeply about his family, his fellow officers, and the community he served. His loss is felt throughout our department, and his legacy will continue through the countless lives he impacted.”

Lopey served his country in the United States Army for four years. As an infantry mortarman, he deployed in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom during the Iraq War. Following his active-duty service, he continued serving in the National Guard as a combat engineer.

Lopey began his law enforcement career with the Washoe County Sheriff’s Office as a Deputy Sheriff. He later transferred to the Reno Police Department, serving there for nearly 13 years.

During his career with the Reno Police Department, Detective Lopey excelled in patrol operations and earned the role of Patrol Training Officer, mentoring and guiding new officers early in their careers.

He later earned an assignment to the Regional Gang Unit and eventually became a detective while also serving as a member of the Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT) Team.

“On behalf of the residents of Reno, I extend our heartfelt condolences to Detective Lopey’s family, friends, and everyone in the Reno Police Department,” said Reno Mayor Hillary Schieve. “We are grateful for his service, and our community joins together in remembering and honoring his life. Detective Lopey spent his life serving something larger than himself. Whether serving our nation in the Army or protecting our community as a Reno police officer, he devoted his life to helping others and answered every call to serve with honor and dedication.”

Lopey is survived by his wife and daughter.