Photo: East Baton Rouge Parish Sheriff's Office/Facebook
Nick Tullier, an East Baton Rouge Parish Sheriff's Deputy severely injured in a 2016 shooting that targeted law enforcement, passed away on Thursday.
A post on the Facebook group Nick Tullier Strong said simply, "God has gained his best angel this morning."
Tullier's family had asked for prayers as his condition turned critical in recent days.
East Baton Rouge Parish Sheriff Sid Gautreaux said he was heartbroken with the news of Tullier's passing.
"Nick’s injury was a result of his selfless actions to courageously answer the call to protect and serve," said Gautreaux. "For nearly six years he has defied all odds in recovery through his unwavering tenacity. I have no doubt, that he was also greatly carried by the love, prayers and faith of his family, friends and colleagues. In watching Nick’s parents, James and Mary, nobly and lovingly dedicate their lives to Nick’s recovery, it is not hard to see how he grew to become such an honorable man. My heart and prayers go out to them, Nick’s sons Gage and Trenton, and all of his family. Nick’s story certainly does not end here. His legacy of service, sacrifice and faith lives on through all of those he touched. We will be forever grateful and always remember and honor our hero, Nick Tullier."
"Deputy Nick Tullier is a true hero who served East Baton Rouge Parish with honor and distinction," said Mayor-President Sharon Weston Broome. "Deputy Tullier and his fellow law enforcement officers put their lives on the line so the rest of us could be safe. His life epitomized what it means to protect and serve. I have ordered the flags at half-staff at all City-Parish buildings in his honor. Please join me in keeping his family and loved ones in your thoughts and prayers."
The 2016 shooting took the lives of EBRSO deputy Brad Garafola and Baton Rouge Police officers Matthew Gerald and Montrell Jackson.
Gov. John Bel Edwards also ordered flags to fly at half-staff over the state Capitol and all public buildings in East Baton Rouge through Friday.
"Donna and I are deeply saddened by the passing of Corporal Nick Tullier," Edwards said. "Six years ago, Nick selflessly defended his fellow officers, as well as the Baton Rouge community, in the face of a horrendous, targeted act of violence. The sacrifices made by Corporal Tullier, along with Deputy Garafola, Officer Gerald, and Corporal Jackson, weigh continuously on my heart. They were true heroes who fiercely loved the community they vowed to protect and serve. Nick’s road these past six years was more difficult than words can describe, and yet he inspired us all with his drive to survive and light of hope. Equally inspiring is his loving family, who gave everything to Nick’s recovery. Our prayers are with Nick’s family as they go through this heartbreaking loss."