(February 19, 2004) -- The Long Beach Police Department and many in the city family are in mourning in the wake of the sudden, untimely off-duty death of LBPD Sgt. Tim O'Donnell, 36, on February 18.

The circumstances of his passing are nearly unimaginable.

Westminster PD officer Bill Arganda told LBReport.com that at approximately 7:46 p.m., witnesses saw a vehicle westbound on Westminster Blvd. going over the 405 freeway overpass when it sideswiped three cars for no apparent reason and came to rest near Springdale St. Sgt. O'Donnell was found slumped over the wheel, deceased.

Sgt. O'Donnell was apparently stricken by some sudden medical condition, the precise nature of which is being examined.

LB Police Officers Association president Steve James described Sgt. O'Donnell as "absolutely the most gentle and kind person I've ever met, someone we should all emulate on how to treat people. He treated everyone with the utmost respect and made everyone feel good about themselves."

Sgt. O'Donnell, a 12 year veteran of LBPD, was in charge of LB's Marine Patrol.

He is survived by his wife, children ages 4 and 2, his parents, and siblings including a sister and two brothers...one of whom is Patrick O'Donnell, currently challenging the incumbent for the 4th district City Council seat.

LBReport.com sends our condolences to Sgt. O'Donnell's family, co-workers and many friends.