Three days after Austin police officer Amir Adbul Khaliq passed away, his father told the media that he holds no ill will towards the other driver involved in the accident.
Motorcycle Officer Khaliq died from the injuries he sustained in an accident during a funeral escort last Thursday. Ana Maria Prado, 51, was ticketed for failing to yield to an emergency vehicle.
"May God bless her, I'm sure it wasn't on purpose. May God bless her and not make it too hard on her. It was an accident. The only thing I have for her is sadness and sorrow because I know, I know she has to be hurting behind this, just like we are, maybe not to our extent but I know she is not good about this at all," said Khaliq Sr.
The father thanked Austin Police Chief Art Acevedo, victim services, department staff, emergency personnel and the community. He said his family has received nothing but kindness and generosity.
"Also the hospital staff that revived him a number of times," the father said.
He called his first born and namesake “Captain,” a nickname Khaliq Jr. earned as a child. Many times during the press conference, Khaliq Sr. cried.
"We were blessed with a son that came and served such a great city and he gave his life for it," said Khaliq Sr.
During his son's funeral, Khaliq Sr. got choked up, describing his surprise by the turn out.
"I have never seen so many people," said Khaliq Sr.
As American Muslims, Khaliq Sr. explained his son's death as predestined.
"...and it hurts but most of my tears are tears of joy because I know he’s happy now. I know he's in a better place," said Khaliq Sr.
Officer Khaliq was a well-regarded and much respected member of APD's Motors Unit. Fellow motorcycle colleagues remembered him as one of their best.
The 46-year-old also played football for the Central Texas Wolfpacks, a team made up of fellow first responders. Officer Khaliq was a U.S. Marine Corps veteran and had served with the Austin Police Department for 17 years. He is survived by his five children.
The Greater Austin Crime Commission has established the Amir Abdul-Khaliq Family Fund to accept donations on behalf of his family. To make a secure online contribution use the "donate" link at austincrime.org.
The public may also contribute in person at any Chase Bank location in Central Texas or via wire transfer. You must provide the following information:
Greater Austin Crime Commission
Amir Abdul-Khaliq Family Fund
JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A.
Routing number 111000614
Account number 877696976