A Worcester Police Department officer had died along with the 14-year-old teen he was trying to save from drowning Friday.
38-year-old Enmanuel “Manny” Familia was among five officers who jumped into the waters at around 1:35 p.m. Friday, trying to rescue a drowning fourteen years old.
An hour later, Familia and the teen were both fighting for their lives at a hospital where they later died.
The late five-year veteran is survived by his wife, daughter, and son as well as his parents. He was described as a “brother, friend, and partner” within the Worcester Police Department.
“The City of Worcester has lost a hero. We will remember and honor his selfless devotion to Worcester and his ultimate sacrifice to save someone he didn’t know.”
All flags were ordered flown at half-staff on Saturday at Worcester municipal and public buildings.
“There are no words to express how difficult this loss is. God knows this city has had more than its share of loss,” City Manager Edward Augustus Jr. said.
