Passaic Police Officer Dies Suddenly At 29, Department Says

PASSAIC, NJ — Friends and family members are mourning Passaic Police Department officer Brian Lora, who has died unexpectedly at the age of 29.

Police officials said Lora worked for the department for three years, first in the Uniformed Patrol Bureau and then with the School Resource Division.

"Officer Lora's tenure was marked by unwavering loyalty, exemplary work ethic, fearless commitment to duty, and steadfast adherence to the highest principles of law enforcement," the department said on Monday afternoon.

Officer Lora is survived by his wife Kimberly, his colleagues, friends, and family — including uncle Hector C. Lora, the city's mayor.

His official cause of death has not been released, though the mayor told NorthJersey.com that it appeared to be a heart attack.

Mayor Lora remembered his nephew as one of the "unique individuals who come into this world with such beautiful hearts and souls that all who know them feel blessed to be in their lives."

He asked for prayers for Brian's wife Kimberly, and everyone among their family members. Brian's father (Mayor Lora's brother) pre-deceased him, the mayor also said.

"This loss feels beyond overwhelming; however, our faith remains strong in God," he wrote.

Officer Lora was also a dedicated member of the New Jersey Dominican Officers Organization, the group said in a social media post.

"This sudden loss serves as a sober reminder that tomorrow is never guaranteed," said the NJDO in a statement.