Decorated Police Officer Dies Unexpectedly In Stamford

STAMFORD, CT — Jarah Mathews-Dixon, a decorated 12-year veteran of the Bridgeport Police Department, died unexpectedly Saturday night in Stamford. News of his passing was shared Saturday by Bridgeport Police.

According to the announcement, Mathews-Dixon joined the department in 2008, and both he and his family have "deep roots in Bridgeport." News 12 reports he died as a result of a heart attack at his home in Stamford.

Mathews-Dixon had received the Distinguished Service Medal and the Medal of Merit. His latest assignment was with the Fusion Center Team, according to the department.

"Our thoughts and prayers are with the family of Officer Mathews-Dixon at this time, along with all of his brothers and sisters of the Bridgeport Police Department," Bridgeport Mayor Joseph Ganim said in a statement.

According to the Connecticut Post, Mathews-Dixon received honors from the department in 2018 in connection with the pursuit of a vehicle that had committed an infraction. During the pursuit, officers witnessed the occupants throwing a large amount of items out of the vehicle.

Police later found they planned to commit arson to a business and kill the owner, the Connecticut Post reports. Mathews-Dixon and K-9 Officer Marie Cetti were recognized by the department for their role in the arrest.

"Officer Mathews-Dixon was a great officer [and] a kind person," Chief Armando Perez said in a statement, "he will surely be missed; our department is very saddened at this time."

Funeral arrangements are forthcoming.

Includes reporting by Chris Rhatigan , Patch Staff