By Dean Maddox, Public Safety & Crime Reporter

Parole Agent Joshua Byrd, 40, was honored this week at a memorial service held at Bayside Church in Roseville, following his death in the line of duty on July 17. He is the first California parole agent to be killed in the line of duty.

A U.S. Navy veteran and devoted public servant, Byrd began his career with the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation (CDCR) in 2014. He served first as a correctional officer, later promoted to sergeant, and joined the Oakland parole office in 2024.

Byrd leaves behind a wife and three children.

The service included full honors—CDCR bagpiper, riderless horse, 21-gun salute, and flag folding ceremony—as law enforcement officers from across California and beyond gathered to pay their respects. Governor Gavin Newsom presented a California flag to Byrd’s family during the ceremony.

CDCR Secretary Jeff Macomber described Byrd as a man of calm presence and deep commitment to his work. “His legacy will always be remembered,” Macomber said.

Byrd was fatally shot at the Oakland parole office during an incident that is now the subject of a criminal prosecution. A suspect, Bryan Keith Hall, 48, has been charged with multiple felonies, including the special circumstance of murder of a peace officer.

According to court documents, Hall has a lengthy criminal record dating back nearly three decades. The case has prompted public reflection on the challenges of supervising high-risk parolees and ensuring officer safety.

This marks the first CDCR line-of-duty loss since 2018.

Agent Byrd was known among colleagues and friends for his quiet strength and commitment to service. His life and sacrifice are being remembered across the state by those who knew him—and by many who didn’t