Metro officer Phil Closi, who died Aug. 11 from COVID complications, is pictured with his family.
Monday, Aug. 23, 2021 | 10:07 p.m.
Metro Police has launched a fundraiser for officer Phil Closi, who died Aug. 11 from COVID-19 complications.
The fundraiser, organized by Southern Nevada non-profit Behind the Blue, will raise money to help pay for expenses associated with the 21-year Metro veteran’s illness, the department said in a news release. Those wanting to donate can do so here.
Closi was an area representative for the Las Vegas Police Protective Association union for several years while working out of Convention Center Area Command. He was a Rad Kids instructor, D.A.R.E. officer, and wrote school violence awareness programs, Metro said.
“Closi was known as an incredibly involved family man and a volunteer coach for both of his children's hockey teams at City National Arena,” the release said. “He approached every situation in life with an amazing sense of humor and had a strong desire to help others. He made friends wherever he went.”
Closi leaves behind his wife, daughter and son. Whether or not Closi was vaccinated against COVID-19 has not been made public. Funeral arrangements are also not public at this time.
Including Closi, three Metro officers have died from the novel coronavirus. Eight-year department veteran Jason Swanger, 41, died last month. And Erik Lloyd, a popular lieutenant, died July 29, 2020. Metro said Lloyd was exposed to coronavirus in the line of duty.
