WEST PALM BEACH, Fla. — A 30-year-old off-duty West Palm Beach police officer died Sunday after his car went into a canal along North Congress Avenue, a police spokesman said Monday.
The victim was identified as Joshua Tyree Ballesteros, who joined the department in 2018, by spokesman Mike Jachles.
At 5:21 a.m., a 911 caller reported seeing a car go into the canal off Congress Avenue just south of Lombard Street, just east of Interstate 95. Another 911 caller said the car was upside down in the water with no one getting out, Jachles said in a news release.
Officers arrived within minutes, went into the water and brought the driver of the 2017 Ford Fusion to shore, Jachles said. They began CPR and West Palm Beach Fire Department paramedics took him to St. Mary’s Medical Center in critical condition.
Ballesteros died later Sunday at the hospital.
"Traffic homicide investigators determined that the Ford Fusion was northbound on Congress Avenue when, for reasons unknown, it ran off the road and struck a guardrail before hitting a tree, rolling over and landing in the canal upside down," Jachles said.
Southbound Congress Avenue was shut down for several hours while investigators conducted the on-scene investigation, and the car was removed from the canal.
Ballesteros graduated from Palm Beach State College Basic Law Enforcement in 2018.
He played on the Florida Atlantic University football team in 2014 and 2015, and Miami Central High School.
His fiance Glen’Tisha Johnson, who also is a police officer, set up a GoFundMe page "for his funeral arrangements and most importantly create financial security for his daughter, Bobbi as a result of Joshua’s untimely death."
She wrote:
"Joshua embodied the essence of love and care as a devoted father, son, big brother, and role model. His selflessness knew no bounds, always prioritizing the well-being of others over his own. Every room he entered lit up with the warmth of his protective presence. His infectious smile and words of wisdom served as a balm to every weary soul he encountered, offering solace and comfort in times of need. Joshua's impact stretched far and wide, leaving an indelible mark on everyone fortunate enough to cross his path. His heart overflowed with compassion, extending even to the smallest creatures, as he cherished his pets as beloved family members. With a disciplined and perfectionist spirit, he approached life with determination and a keen ability to learn and adapt swiftly. Joshua was the unwavering shield and unwavering provider for his family, embodying love and dedication in every possible way."