South Salt Lake Police Department Building Now Named in Fallen Officer David Romrell’s Honor

SOUTH SALT LAKE CITY, Utah – We don’t remember much as babies.

For what Jackson Romrell doesn’t understand now, though, he sure has a lot of friends willing to tell him all about his dad later.

“And his lasting legacy of service, heroism, and sacrifice,” said South Salt Lake Deputy Police Chief Dwayne Ruth during a ceremony Sunday.

One year ago today, South Salt Lake police officer David Romrell responded to a burglary call and was hit by the suspect’s vehicle as they were trying to get away.

David Romrell died a few hours later.

“David was the first South Salt Lake police officer to die in the line of duty since we became a police department in 1939,” said Ruth.

To mark the one-year anniversary of his death, his friends, family, and co-workers held a held a ceremony for him.

They also officially dedicated the building where the police department is in his name.

It’s now called the David P. Romrell Public Safety Building.

“We miss you so much. But you continue to live in our hearts, and we cherish those moments that you were with us,” said Romrell’s sister, Jennifer Romrell Legerski, while speaking at the ceremony.

David Romrell’s wife, Elizabeth Romrell, also spoke to the crowd.

“Over this past year, I have cried more than I thought possible,” she said.

Through all her tears, though, Elizabeth Romrell said she thanks the community for everything done to keep her husband’s memory alive and for helping her through this.

“I have learned the true meaning of loss, but then I find moments of pure joy when I look into the eyes of Jackson,” she said.

No, Jackson doesn’t understand any of this.

But, one day, he will.

It’s his name on the building, too.

“I would hope that Jackson is just like his dad,” said David Romrell’s sister. “Determined, gentle, loving, and wanting to do good.”