LAKE ASBURY – On the fifth anniversary of Det. David White’s death, deputies with the Clay County Sheriff’s Office and White’s loved ones gathered at his grave at Russell Haven of Rest …
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LAKE ASBURY – On the fifth anniversary of Det. David White’s death, deputies with the Clay County Sheriff’s Office and White’s loved ones gathered at his grave at Russell Haven of Rest Cemetery off Sandridge Road.
Speakers made it clear that Feb. 16, 2012, the night White died in the line of duty, was only one day of his life and choose instead to remember him for the many other days he shared with friends, family and children.
“I’m the one who gets to see them grow up and who gets to see how wonderful they are every single day and to know how much he would love seeing them grow,” said Jennifer White, David’s widow. “Good can come of an awful situation because of the love that was there and the love that will never die.”
David, a veteran, died from a gunshot wound during a raid of a suspected drug house on the 4800 block of Alligator Boulevard in Middleburg. Six squatters used the home as a meth lab. His fellow Narcotics Unit member Detective Matt Hanlin was seriously injured.
As Detective White and another detective approached the front door, one of the occupants immediately opened fire, killing White and injuring Hanlin.
The shooter ran through the home and to the back door, where another officer subsequently opened fire and fatally killed the man.
White served with the Clay County Sheriff’s Office for nine years.
“Of course I would want Dave back,” Jennifer said. “I’m just thankful for the chance to keep living and honoring him, and to have the privilege of raising our children.
Since his death, Jennifer White has created a foundation in her late husband’s name to honor his memory and support law enforcement and their families.
The David White Scholarship Program also pays for recruits to go to the police academy every year. The Board of the Foundation is comprised of members from Clay County Sheriff's Office, Orange Park Police Department and the Green Cove Springs Police Department.