Albuquerque Police Officer Dies On Duty

Albuquerque police have identified the officer who died suddenly Thursday of a medical issue as John Kelly.

Kelly has worked at the Albuquerque Police Department since 2006 as a detective and field training officer. Prior to joining APD, he was in the Army and served in Afghanistan, according to police.

He was preparing to start a training exercise Thursday morning when he died unexpectedly.

Police have said an autopsy will determine the cause of death, according to a news release.

Kelly, who was in his mid-30s, had three children and three stepchildren.

In 2008, Kelly was recognized for being the "officer of the month."

At that time, APD said Kelly was a self-motivator and the first to volunteer to priority calls.

"His productivity is phenomenal and he is always a top producer in the squad," APD said in a 2008 news release about Kelly.

Police went on to say that Kelly has exceptional decision-making skills and is unruffled in the face of chaos.

"When calling for additional backup in a crisis situation, he remains extremely calm, which encourages those around him to do the same," APD said.

Copyright 2015 - Albuquerque Journal, N.M.

Tribune News Service