“A trooper’s trooper.” That was a phrase used repeatedly to describe Washington State Patrol Trooper Tony Radulescu at a memorial this afternoon in Kent.
He was born in Bucharest and immigrated to the United States at age 14. He served in the US Army, spoke five languages and was well known for having a great sense of humor and a radiant smile.
His son Eric spoke at the memorial. He said his Dad was always looking out for others, adding that the tragedy of his killing seems to be pushing legislation forward that will continue to do so.
After languishing several years, the "Blue Alert" bill passed out of the state House of Representatives in Olympia on Wednesday evening with a vote of 98 -0, shortly after lawmakers honored Radulescu.
"It's similar to the Amber alert for children," the fallen trooper's son Eric said, speaking at the memorial. "It will have the community on watch for criminals who seriously injure or kill police officers. And I think it's going to make a big difference for everyone in the law enforcement field, for the rest of time."
Radulescu, a 16-year veteran of the State Patrol, was shot Feb. 23 near Gorst by a driver who later took his own life.
Six people have been charged with rendering criminal assistance, according to the Associated Press.
Before the memorial, where Governor Christine Gregoire also spoke, a procession of about 700 law enforcement and emergency vehicles with lights flashing escorted the hearse carrying Radulescu's body.
The procession made its way from Silverdale, through Port Orchard, and Joint Base Lewis-McChord before arriving in Kent.
