A 29 year old, Omaha police woman, Kerrie Orozco, was killed yesterday only one day before she was scheduled to go on maternity leave.

Orozco and her partner were looking for Marcus Wheeler, a man who was being pursued for a felony warrant involving another shooting. When they confronted Wheeler, he opened fire on the officers killing Officer Orozco. When police returned fire Wheeler was struck and killed as well.

Orozco had prematurely given birth to her daughter in February; the baby girl was supposed to be released from the hospital today. Orozco insisted on postponing her leave until her baby was released from the hospital.

Todd Schamaderer, Omaha Policer Chief told the AP, “She was a tremendous officer and even better person.”

If being a mother of three and serving with law enforcement wasn’t enough, Orozco was also an active member of the community. She did volunteer work with the Special Olympics, was a Girl Scout mentor, and coached sports at the Omaha Boys and Girls Club.

Sgt. Amy Oetter tweeted about Orozco saying “We lost a great sister today.”

At the time of her death, Orozco was serving in the department’s gang unit. She had been on the force for 10 years. She leaves behind two step children each under the age of 10

Members of the community say that Orozco was the perfect woman. She served her community and was one of the most active participants.

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FSA CONNECTION QUESTIONS

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4. What does the word ‘premature’ mean?
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