On November 12, 2003, while on patrol, Officer Dan Walters and his partner stopped to cover another officer on a traffic stop involving a violent domestic disturbance in progress in Southeastern Division. Unbeknownst to Officer Walters, the initial officer had just been shot at and hit in the handcuff case. As Officer Walters exited his vehicle, the suspect advanced and pointed a handgun at Officer Walters’ face. Officer Walters attempted to disarm the suspect and during the struggle, the suspect shot Officer Walters in the neck. As he fell into the street, Officer Walters was struck by a passing motorist, causing additional traumatic injuries.  Officer Walters was transported to a local hospital where it was determined he was paralyzed from the neck down and sustained several other serious medical injuries.

The suspect was shot by officers and later died.  The surviving officer credits Officer Dan Walters with saving his life.

Officer Walters remained paralyzed and had to endure countless surgeries and medical procedures to address a multitude of medical issues arising from the original injuries.  Tragically, on April 23, 2020, Officer Dan Walters succumbed to complications from the injuries he sustained on November 12, 2003.

Officer Walters had served with the San Diego Police Department for five years at the time of the incident that ultimately took his life.  Before serving with the San Diego Police Department, Officer Walters was drafted by the Houston Astros and played two seasons of Major League Baseball with the San Diego Padres.