TUCSON, Ariz. (KGUN) — The Erik Hite Foundation is asking the public for donations to mark the 15th anniversary of Tucson Police Officer Erik Hite's death while in the line of duty.
"My memories. Keep my mind keeps playing everything that happened that day, and it's hard. It's hard to take all that away from your mind. It's always going to be there," says his wife, Nohemy Hite.
On June 2, 2008, Officer Hite was shot and killed while pursuing a suspect that had shot and wounded a Pima County Sheriff's deputy.
Nohemy Hite started the Erik Hite Foundation in his honor to support first responders and military families. Officer Hite worked for TPD for four years and before that served in the U.S. Air Force.
"Just trying to focus on positive things trying to keep his legacy legacy alive," says Nohemy. "Through service giving back to the first responders community, the military community, and the families that need us—that's what's been for the last 15 years."
The nonprofit has helped to create several programs over the years, including a private childcare development center in 2011.
Their mission is to support the families of first responders by providing family outreach, childcare, self-defensea and support groups.
Nohemy Hite tells KGUN 9 other cities have consulted with her to form similar programs.
The foundation is collecting donations in increments of $15 through June 30 via its website, erikhitefoundation.org.
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Reyna Preciado is a reporter for KGUN 9, she joined the KGUN 9 team in July of 2022 after graduating Arizona State University. Share your story ideas with Reyna by emailing reyna.preciado@kgun9.com or by connecting on Instagram, or Twitter.
