63°
Henry Breckenridge, a Peabody police officer, died from complications that arose during a non-emergency surgery at Salem Hospital, the Peabody Police Department announced on Thursday, July 20.
Hospital staff worked "heroically" to try and save him, but to no avail.
Breckenridge believed in community policing and was an "outstanding" officer, said Police Chief Tom Griffin.
He was particularly loved by young people, who shared support and tributes in his honor after his death.
"These are testaments to the caliber of his character which include authenticity, kindness, and compassion," said Griffin.
Breckenridge was particularly known for his trademark smile.
"He lit up every room that he walked into with his huge smile, his loud karaoke voice, his boisterous laugh, and his loveable personality," read a tribute message posted on Facebook.
Demonstrating just how well-known and liked Breckenridge was, a GoFundMe created to raise money for the officer's family raised over $4,000 in only a few hours.
The fundraiser was created to "help the family through this tragic time to lessen the stress [by] giving Henry the well-deserved send-off he should receive," according to the campaign description.
"He will be missed and never forgotten," wrote the Massachusetts Coalition of Police on Facebook.
Click here to view the GoFundMe for Breckenridge.
Click here to follow Daily Voice Dorchester and receive free news updates.
