Memorial Star Honors Fallen LAPD Officer

The star was installed at the entrance to the LAPD's Hollywood Station, just a few blocks away from the Hollywood Walk of Fame

The Los Angeles Police Department unveiled a memorial star outside the Hollywood Station to honor Officer Nicholas Lee, who was killed when his patrol car was hit by a dump truck.

The ceremony in front of the station in the 1300 block of North Wilcox Avenue was attended by dozens of uniformed officers, along with Lee's family and friends.

"Let us not forget, LAPD is a family, and we support one another even after one of our own passes," LAPD Deputy Chief Terry Hara said. "We will always be there for the Lee family."

The star was installed at the entrance to the LAPD's Hollywood Station, just a few blocks away from the Hollywood Walk of Fame.

"As iconic as that Walk of Fame is, this right here has a different purpose," LAPD Capt. Peter Zarcone said.

His star sits among others of officers who died in the line of duty, the oldest star dating back to 1936.

Lee's family unveiled the memorial star at the emotional ceremony.

"I'm just so happy we have this type of support. The outpouring of support from LAPD and the surrounding community has been wonderful," said Cathy Lee, Nicholas' widow. "He was just filled with love, a wonderful guy."

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Lee, 40, died at the scene of the morning crash on March 7 near Robert Lane and Loma Vista Drive in Beverly Hills, about a block across the city line.

Lee's partner, only three months out of the police academy, was hospitalized and released.

The two were responding to an "unknown trouble" call when the crash happened.

Los Angeles Police Chief Charlie Beck said shortly after the crash that it appeared the truck, which wound up on its side after striking the patrol car, may have lost its brakes.

A 16-year veteran who received more than 70 commendations, the Korean- born Lee previously was assigned to the Van Nuys and Wilshire stations prior to the Hollywood Station, police said.

A memorial fund has been set up for Lee's family. Donations can be made to Los Angeles Police Federal Credit Union/Attention: Nicholas Lee/Blue Ribbon Fund, P.O. Box 10188, Van Nuys, CA, 91410.

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