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In a poignant ceremony on November 17, the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department (CMPD) dedicated the W.T. Harris Bridge over Interstate 85 to fallen Officer Mia Goodwin, marking almost two years since the tragic incident that claimed her life.
Officer Goodwin, a six-year veteran of CMPD, was the first female officer in the department’s history to lose her life in the line of duty.
The dedication ceremony brought together CMPD officers, local and state officials, and Officer Goodwin’s family to honor her memory.
Chief Johnny Jennings spoke about the profound impact of that December night in 202,1 when he received the heartbreaking news of Goodwin’s death.
“There’s one call you never, ever want to get, and that’s to find out you’ve lost one of your own. It changed my life forever. It changed many of you, many of your lives forever,” Chief Jennings expressed, reflecting on the impact Officer Goodwin had on the department.
Goodwin, who had recently returned from maternity leave after the birth of her third child, lost her life while directing traffic from an earlier wreck on I-85.
A tragic collision involving two tractor-trailers resulted in the loss of Officer Goodwin, who was struck at the scene.
Police officials said that four other officers were injured in the crash, with only one returning to full police duties.
The truck driver has since pleaded guilty to charges of involuntary manslaughter, and was sentenced to a year and four months in prison.
Retired CMPD Sergeant Darrell Antley, who worked closely with Goodwin, remembered her as a “God-loving, intelligent, compassionate young officer” destined for a stellar law enforcement career.
Chief Jennings also praised her unwavering dedication.
“Here’s somebody who loved this job, realized the dangers of it and still, still loved coming to work every day,” the chief said.
Jennings added that the Officer Mia Goodwin Bridge not only immortalizes her sacrifice but ensures that her legacy will endure.
“The naming of this bridge ensures that her legacy will live on. And I couldn’t be more proud of that,” he remarked. “Her legacy will live on forever.”
Goodwin’s family, including her husband, a Charlotte firefighter and her three young children, attended the emotional ceremony.
Antonio Figueroa, Goodwin’s father, spoke after the dedication, thanking the community for their support.
Despite the heart-wrenching loss, he expressed gratitude and wished everyone a blessed holiday season.
Antley took the time to address Goodwin’s children, Gabriela, Grayson and Gia.
“Dear Gabriela, Grayson and Gia, I pray that in 20 years from now, when you drive out to this bridge, you see not the place where you lost your mother but that the city of Charlotte and the state of North Carolina acknowledge and appreciate her service, sacrifice, and legacy,” he said.
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