Our History

The mission of the, "9463 Foundation for Florida's Fallen Officers"  is to:  remember fallen heroes, educate the public, and support and assist the families who have lost loved ones while they were serving  our community.

The foundation unwittingly began on August 10, 2007 at 1:20 AM, when Broward Sheriff's Sergeant Christopher Reyka came upon two suspicious vehicles parked to the rear of a Walgreen's drug store in Pompano Beach, Florida.  Upon initiating an investigation, Sgt. Reyka was shot and killed by assailants who have yet to be brought to justice.

Chris, a former United States Marine, was a:  good son, loyal  brother, doting father, loving husband, committed friend and humble hero. Chris left behind a beautiful wife and four exceptional children; a family who has survived a horrific loss.

 

My name is Brian Donnelly and I was the first deputy to arrive on the scene after Chris was shot. I was fortunate enough to have the honor of comforting Chris as he slipped from this life and in that moment, I made it my mission to  increase awareness and ease the suffering of survivors.  Chris's passing was the birth of a new beginning - the start of something that codifies the spirit in which Chris lived his life and served his fellow citizen: The 9463 Foundation for Florida's Fallen Officers.

The inaugural motorcycle ride was on March 29, 2008 and had 1500 motorcycles and a total of 2500 supporters, from nine states and two countries. The ride started from the Walgreen’s, and went to Sergeant Reyka’s final resting place in Palm Beach County. We went to lunch at Mississippi Sweets BBQ, and ended at the Police Hall of Fame in Titusville, Florida, 185 miles away.

On August 10th, 2008, the Candle Light Ride was conducted. It was initiated on the evening of August 9th at the Broward County PBA Hall wherein supporters enjoyed an all-you-can-eat dinner, live bands, door prizes, and a raffle. Riders then departed at 12:00 AM and concluded the 11 mile journey at the Walgreens. At 1:20 AM all the exterior lights and candles were shut off followed by an outdoor wall video presentation which marked one year to the minute of Sergeant Reyka’s shooting.

The 2009 State Ride was a one-week motorcycle ride which starting on Saturday March 28 to Saturday April 4, 2009. There were three stops a day and you could join or depart the Ride at any of the stops. Most supporters are not able to take a week of for the entire event but we are hoping every Law Enforcement Officer and supporter in the State of Florida will join us at least one of the stops, and ride to the next stop. The stops are no more that two hours and no more that 100 miles apart. You are not limited to motorcycles... All vehicles will be welcome to take part in this Ride.

Plans are under way for the 2010 State Ride. We need one person from each county so if you think this is a worthy cause and would like to help, please give me a call at anytime...

Remember, all are invited. If you don’t ride, cars are encouraged and will be in the precession. The event is over several hours which will allow all who have to work the opportunity attend at least some part of the event.  Every law enforcement officer should be in attendance at least one part of this event.