Annual Tree Lighting Ceremony Will Honor Fallen Dublin Police Officer

DUBLIN, CA — A tree lighting ceremony held at Dublin Police Services this month will pay homage to fallen Officer John Monego. Monego lost his life while responding to a robbery on Dec. 12, 1998, when he was shot numerous times after being ambushed by three suspects who had captured and were holding the first deputy who had arrived on scene inside.

Monego was the first police officer to die in the line of duty in Dublin. He had been an officer for nine years when he was fatally shot. His son, Dominic, was just 18-months-old at the time. Three suspects were arrested for the robbery and murder. The shooter, Reuben Vasquez, was convicted of murder and sentenced to life in prison without the possibility of parole.

The Tri-Valley community has gathered together each year to remember Monego and to honor all emergency first responders and their sacrifices.

The event will be held in the lobby of Dublin Police Services on Dec. 10 at 6 p.m. All are invited to pay their respects.

Dublin Police Services is located at 100 Civic Plaza.

Photo courtesy Autumn Johnson/ Patch