Senator Padilla’s Statement on the Death of San Diego Police Officer Austin Machitar

SACRAMENTO –Senator Steve Padilla (D-San Diego) released the following statement today following the death of San Diego police officer Austin Machitar:

“I had the privilege to know Austin for many years. Foremost, I had the honor of knowing the man that he was, but moreover, loved the person. He was warm, thoughtful, gentle, and kind. Austin had a bright, million-dollar smile that put everyone at ease. He was always willing to help and find ways to help.

I knew him in the dawn of his young adult life, when he was searching to find his calling, while never letting go of his youthful sense of adventure and zest for life. He found that calling as an officer for the San Diego Police Department and no doubt, he served with distinction. As Chief Wahl stated, ‘Our community has lost one of the good ones.’

I will never forget that earnest young man. I will always love and respect the brave hero he grew to be. My family and I, like our community, are heartbroken and we wrap our hearts in thought and prayer around his family.”

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Steve Padilla represents the 18th Senate District, which includes the communities of Chula Vista, the Coachella Valley, Imperial Beach, the Imperial Valley, National City, and San Diego. Prior to his election to the Senate in 2022, Senator Padilla was the first person of color ever elected to city office in Chula Vista, the first Latino Mayor, and the first openly LGBT person to serve or be elected to city office. Website of Senator Steve Padilla: https://sd18.senate.ca.gov/