Willowbrook Park renamed in honor of Sgt. Gutzwiller
He was killed in the line of duty on June 6, 2020
The Santa Cruz County Board of Supervisors unanimously voted on Tuesday to rename Willowbrook County Park in honor of fallen Sgt. Damon Gutzwiller. Gutzwiller was killed in the line of duty on June 6, 2020.
The park, at 2950 Willowbrook Lane in Aptos, was frequented by Gutzwiller and his family, who continue to live in the area. He is survived by his partner, Faviola Del Real and their two young children.
The Deputy Sheriff's Association, Santa Cruz County Parks Department and County Park Friends are working with the community to raise enough funding to complete significant park renovations in Gutzwiller's memory. So far they've raised $250,000, but the funding goals are yet to be met, according to a press release.
Supervisor Zach Friend spoke about the park's newfound mean- ing and the important role it will play in honoring Gutzwiller's memory. “The park will provide a place for his family, friends and broader community to come reflect and share in the beauty of this special place,” he said. “It's a park that held deep meaning to Damon and his family and now we are reimagining the park in a way that's befitting of his honor.”
Gutzwiller's close friend and coworker Sgt. Steve Ryan also spoke about the project. “It is my hope that those who visit this park will see his name and be reminded of the commitment and sacrifice Damon made, while thinking fondly of my friend and brother.”
During previous memorial services and events, Gutzwiller, a 14year veteran of the sheriff's office, was remembered for his dedication, bravery and magnetic smile.
Gutzwiller, 38, was shot and killed while responding to reports of a suspicious vehicle in Ben Lomond. A second deputy and a California High Patrol officer were also injured in the ambush-style attack. Steven Carrillo, an ex-U.S. Air Force staff sergeant and alleged associate of the anti-government “Boogaloo” movement, was charged with the murder and is awaiting trial.
State Senator John Laird recently introduced Senate Bill 850 in honor of Gutzwiller and his family. If passed, the bill would ensure that families of
fallen officers receive full survival benefits regardless of family structure. Gutzwiller and Del Real were not married at the time of his passing, which prevented their children from qualifying for certain survival benefits, according to Laird's website. “Santa Cruz County
Deputy Sergeant Damon Gutzwiller sacrificed his life protecting his community and his children deserve the benefits,” Laird said in a statement on his website.
Updates
Planned updates for the park include a new, more
inclusive play area with new play surfacing, construction and installation of a memorial seating area, park entry enhancements and a new flagpole.
For more information or to learn more about opportunities to participate, visit www.countyparkfriends. org/willowbrook.