SAN DIEGO — A memorial service was held Saturday for a San Diego police officer who was killed in a fiery crash last month.
Family and friends said Austin Machitar was a leader, a hero and now a guardian angel whose life was taken far too soon. The community paid tribute to his life and sacrifice.
"We're all proud to say we knew your son and we assure you here and now Austin's legacy to protect and serve with a smile will never be forgotten," said Scott Wahl, Chief of the San Diego Police Department.
It was his bright smile and charisma will not be forgotten.
"I wish you were here so I could say I love you and hug you and you can call me Kenzie girl one last time," said Mackenzie, Austin's cousin.
His little cousins wrote letters to him describing the lasting impact he's made on their lives.
"I will always remember your kind heart and big smile and that you were here for our family and the community. I will do my best to make you proud and be pointing my finger in the air again so keep an eye on me from the sky. Love you, Juju," Julian, Austin's cousin.
Watch the memorial service
There was a 21-gun salute to honor Austin. It's only given to police officers who have died in the line of duty.
"He was a hero. He was my hero and I'm so beyond proud of him," said Asia Matchitar, Austin's sister.
Austin was a hero and guardian to so many and his legacy will live on.
"It has been such a privilege to watch you grow into the man you had become. I'm so thankful God chose me to be your big sister. You were taken from us far too early and I would do anything to have you back, but I know we all now have a guardian angel in the sky," she said.
In the sky we saw a flyover honoring Austin's life, as his loved ones gave their final goodbye.
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