The video above is from the 2023 press conference discussing the deputy being injured.

TAMPA, Fla. (WFLA) — The Citrus County Sheriff’s Office announced that one of its deputies died Thursday, years after suffering serious injuries from a traffic incident.

On May 23, 2023, Deputy Andy Lahera was seriously injured while directing traffic after Lecanto High School’s graduation ceremony. Another deputy immediately performed first aid on Lahera, who had to be airlifted to a hospital for treatment.

The sheriff’s office said Lahera fought to recover for two years before he died, with the agency saying that his passing “leaves a profound void in the hearts of all who knew him.”

“Andy fought courageously, and this is a tremendous loss for his family, our agency, and this community,” Sheriff David Vincent said. “His heart for this community was unmatched, and his devotion to Michele, Vincent, and Nicholas was the foundation of everything he did. We’ve lost a true hero and fighter. We will honor Andy’s legacy by standing beside his family, just as he always stood beside ours.”

Prior to his death, Lahera served the Citrus County community for 14 years. He also worked as a “dependable” school resource officer from 2018 to 2023, according to the sheriff’s office.

He is survived by his wife, Michele, and their two sons, Vincent and Nicholas.

“Details regarding memorial services will be shared in the coming days,” the sheriff’s office wrote. “In the meantime, we ask the community to keep the Lahera family in their thoughts and prayers as we mourn the loss of a true public servant.”