Officer Noah Leotta Memorial Blood Drive Fully Booked

GAITHERSBURG, MD — Montgomery County residents have filled all the slots available at a blood drive planned in honor of Officer Noah Leotta, who died after he was hit by a suspected drunk driver.

The Montgomery County Police Department last week asked people to donate blood in honor of Leotta on Dec 23. On Monday, the department said all the appointments have been filled and Red Cross personnel and equipment will not be able to serve walk-in appointments.

The department said it is coordinating with the Red Cross to host another blood drive in Leotta’s honor after the new year and will let the community know when the blood drive will take place.

Leotta died Dec. 10, a week after he was hit by a car while taking part in a holiday drunk-driving task force. Suspect Luis Gustavo Reluzco, 47, of Olney, was arrested on suspicion of driving under the influence of alcohol and drugs.

Reluzco was arrested twice before for drunk driving and a previous conviction for drug possession.

Last week, Montgomery County Police Chief Thomas Manger denounced the drunk-driving suspect in the Leotta’s death, along with what he called Maryland’s weak laws that do little to punish offenders.

SEE ALSO:

• Officer’s Funeral: Procession Images, Video
• Police Chief Denounces ‘Drunk Driver,’ State’s Weak Laws
• Dram Shop Law Needed to Deter Drunk Drivers: Leggett

DATE: Wednesday, Dec. 23

LOCATION: Montgomery County Public Safety Headquarters, 100 Edison Park Drive, Gaithersburg, in the first floor conference room

HOURS: 8 a.m. – 3 p.m.

SIGN UP: Online or call Red Cross at 1-800-733-2767

Donors will receive a Red Cross long-sleeve black T-shirt and Buffalo Wild Wings and Chick-fil-A food or coupons.