Daughter of Texas cop killed in ambush blasted for using 'racist hashtag' #bluelivesmatter in her tribute post
The daughter of a Texas cop, who was killed in an ambush, was slammed across social media for using the hashtag #bluelivesmatter while paying a tribute to him.
The daughter, Savannah Chavez, took to Twitter to share a since-deleted post in tribute to her dad, officer Ismael Chavez, 39. Ismael Chavez and a fellow officer Edelmiro Garza, 45 were killed in an ambush as they responded to a domestic disturbance. Savannah's post read, "Words cannot describe the pain I’m in, but I’m glad my dad is at peace. You were an amazing man and anyone who ever came across you knew that," reports Heavy.com.
"I’m going to miss you so much. you died doing what you loved most, you died a hero. I love you daddy, see you soon. #bluelivesmatter 💙," the post continued. Her post was slammed online by some social media users who felt she should not have used the hashtag. One such user wrote, "Being a cop is a choice. Lmao and last time I checked, blue people don’t exist. Maybe educate yourself?"
Another commented, "Blue lives matter was literally created in response to and to undermine black lives matter. There’s no other connotation, unfortunately." "I am so sorry for your loss but you didn’t have to use a racist hashtag," said yet another. However, there were many social media users who showed their support and expressed their deepest condolences.
"Heavenly Father, thank you for the example that #OfficerChavez for us. The legacy he leaves is priceless. The sacrifice he gave was EVERYTHING. For that we are thankful. Please help @sweeetsav and her family in this difficult time. Rest easy Ismael you are home now!" wrote a user.
"Your father raised a strong young woman. You are only 18, and yet you demonstrate far more integrity than the evil swine trying to make your pain worse could ever dream of having. May your wonderful father Rest In Peace, and may you live a long and happy life," wrote another. A third had commented, "That is your Dad Savannah. Many can be a father, being a Dad takes love and dedication. That is what you shared. The greatest gift. I am so sorry for your loss. Honor your Dad by being the best 'you' possible."
The official Twitter handle of the City of McAllen, Texas also shared, "Today, 2 McAllen Police officers were killed in the line of duty. Our City extends its deepest condolences to McAllen PD & to the families of OFC Edelmiro Garza & OFC Ismael Chavez. McAllen is hurting & our hearts & prayers go out to them during this difficult time."
The officer's sister had taken to Facebook to clarify that Chavez did not have any biological children but that Savannah "held a very special place in his heart" and that he "served as a father figure to Savannah Benavides." The post added, "We as a family would like to clarify this for the sole purpose of clarity. Savannah held a very special place in his heart and we will continue to respect that bond. Thank you for all the love and support and we ask everyone to forgive us for not answering we just cannot wrap our head around this and emotions are everywhere right now. May God bless each and every person praying for us."