On August 26, 2024, Officer Machitar was patrolling the Clairemont neighborhoods, doing what he loved most: policing the community to keep it safe. After the termination of a short pursuit of a speeding vehicle, the same driver intentionally plowed into Officer Machitar’s police vehicle at 125mph, which killed the driver and Officer Machitar instantly.

Machitar, who was 30 years old, was not only passionate about his career, but also loved baseball. During the renaming of North Clairemont Community Park to Officer Austin Machitar Memorial Park, his father Chris Machitar, spoke about Austin’s love for baseball; telling a story to approximately 200 people about him playing a game with neighborhood kids during one of his shifts.

The dedication sign at the park and its renaming stands steadfast, like all our officers. It’s a testament that we will stare evil in the face and not be afraid. We encourage every officer to visit the park and pay their respects to Officer Machitar.

To learn more about the park naming click here.