Officer Romrell’s Wife Speaks Publicly For First Time Since His Death

SOUTH SALT LAKE, Utah – The wife of South Salt Lake police Officer David Romrell has spoken for the first time, one week after he was laid to rest at a public memorial.

Elizabeth Romrell thanked the several police departments who showed their support for her and her son. She also expressed appreciation for community and especially family members who leant their support after David Romrell was killed.

It was nearly 3 weeks ago that Officer Romrell was killed on duty when a man driving a stolen SUV rammed into him.

The driver of the vehicle, Felix Anthony Calata, was also killed after other officers fired on him.

“This is the most challenging experience I have ever had to face and yet I never felt alone,” she told reporters, teary-eyed.

South Salt Lake Police Chief Jack Carruth read a prepared statement from Romrell’s family Thursday.

“The loss of David has obviously come with an overwhelming amount of devastation, emptiness, confusion, anger, pain and all the emotions in between,” read Chief Carruth. “With that darkness came great light we could never have anticipated. We are truly grateful for the outpouring of support and love from the community. It has made this tragic time in our family’s life a little easier and allowed us to keep our focus on honoring David and the life he led.”

In its statement, the family also thanked numerous community leaders, organizations and businesses. Family members did not take questions, but Carruth said they would have more to say at a future date.

Romrell’s widow, Elizabeth, was teary eyed as she read a statement on the support police have shown her and other family members.

“This family has constantly—and annoyingly—reminded me that I am and will always be part of this family,” she said.

Officer Romrell worked with the South Salt Lake Police Department for nearly a year. Before that, he served several tours of duty as a US Marine.

“David knew South Salt Lake was a special place the moment he set foot into your town,” her statement continued.

“So many experiences these past few weeks have let me know that David has been preparing me for his departure for a long time now,” said Elizabeth Romrell. “Bringing me this family—our family—David knew we would always be safe here, loved here, and remembered here. I have already thanked David so many times for bringing us to you. If only I could find the right words to thank you each and every one of you. Jackson and I hope to spend a lifetime with you, getting to know you, showing you our gratitude and celebrating the life of My David.”