City of Pompano Beach to dedicate granite monument in honor of fallen BSO Sergeant Chris Reyka at Walgreens parking lot on South Powerline Road

Pompano Beach, Florida – The City of Pompano Beach, in partnership with the Broward Sheriff’s Office (BSO), will host a solemn ceremony to dedicate a new granite monument in honor of Sgt. Christopher “Chris” Reyka on Tuesday, July 29, 2025, at 11:30 a.m. The ceremony will take place at the Walgreens parking lot at 960 South Powerline Road, the very location where Sgt. Reyka tragically lost his life in the line of duty nearly 18 years ago on August 10, 2007.

Sgt. Reyka’s death was a devastating blow to the law enforcement community. While conducting a routine license plate check in the early hours of the morning, he was ambushed and killed. His death not only shocked the Pompano Beach community but also left a lasting impact on the Broward Sheriff’s Office and the residents he served so faithfully. The dedication of the new monument will serve as a permanent tribute to his life and legacy.

“Sergeant Reyka was more than a respected officer—he was a husband, a father, a mentor, and a true public servant,” said Mayor Rex Hardin. “This new granite monument stands as a permanent and dignified reminder of his sacrifice and our community’s enduring gratitude.”

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Sgt. Reyka, a U.S. Marine Corps veteran, served with the Broward Sheriff’s Office for 18 years and was known for his leadership, compassion, and commitment to public safety. Before joining BSO, he also served as an officer with the Pompano Beach Police Department. Throughout his career, Sgt. Reyka received numerous awards and commendations for his dedication to keeping the community safe. His passing left a deep void, not only in law enforcement but also within the hearts of his fellow officers and the residents of Pompano Beach.

The new granite monument is replacing the original tribute that had been placed shortly after Sgt. Reyka’s death. Over the years, the original monument had weathered, and its message was becoming less clear. The new granite stone ensures that Sgt. Reyka’s memory will remain intact and will continue to inspire future generations.

The dedication ceremony will include remarks from local officials, representatives from the Broward Sheriff’s Office, and a moment of silence to honor the fallen officer. The new monument will be unveiled during the ceremony, offering a respectful and permanent place where the community can come together to remember Sgt. Reyka’s service and sacrifice.

“Sgt. Reyka’s sacrifice has not been forgotten, and the new monument will ensure that his memory will live on,” said BSO Sheriff Gregory Tony. “His dedication to the community and law enforcement was unwavering, and it is only fitting that we dedicate this new granite monument to honor his life and the extraordinary contributions he made to keeping Pompano Beach and Broward County safe.”

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Sgt. Reyka leaves behind a wife, Kim, and four children. His family continues to honor his memory and the tremendous impact he had on his community and colleagues. The dedication of this monument will offer them a moment of reflection and a chance to see their loved one’s legacy preserved for generations to come.

The event, which is open to the public, will provide an opportunity for residents, law enforcement officers, and community members to gather in remembrance of Sgt. Reyka’s sacrifice. As his memory endures, so too does the spirit of service and dedication he exemplified throughout his career.

For those wishing to attend the ceremony, the monument dedication will be held at the Walgreens parking lot at 960 South Powerline Road, just outside the heart of Pompano Beach, where Sgt. Reyka’s legacy will forever be honored.