(WXYZ) — Loved ones in metro Detroit are honoring the memory of a police officer and family man who was gunned down in the line of duty in Toledo.
Officer Anthony Dia’s relatives in Dearborn are dealing with heartbreak over this incredible loss. They also want everyone to know, Anthony was a hero.
Captured on a police radio, his final words were a goodbye to his family saying “Tell my family I love them.” Anthony Hussein Dia was 26 years, a loving husband and father of two children. Police say he was shot and killed just after midnight on Saturday, responding to a call of an intoxicated man in a Home Depot parking lot. Police say the man apparently turned the gun on himself, taking his own life soon after.
Anthony’s cousin Charles Scheib says the loss has robbed a family and community of a true leader and hero.
“He was a proud Lebanese-American and devout Muslim, active in the Toledo community and proud of his Arabic heritage. In fact, it helped him in being the best police officer he possibly could be” says Charles.
He adds “He had a courageous heart and infectious smile. He loved animals including his own two pit bulls and rode a Harley motorcycle for fun.” Anthony joined the Toledo police department to make a difference in July 2018, and did just that until his life was tragically cut short.
A funeral to honor his memory will be held in Toledo at 8:30 am Tuesday. The location will be the John Savage Arena at 2025 N. Douglas Rd. on the campus of the University of Toledo. Burial will take place at the Toledo Memorial Cemetery on 6382 Monroe St. in Sylvania, OH.
Donations to his family can also be made here: https://www.gofundme.com/f/tpd-officer-anthony-di-suppor
