Ernesto Serna served in the U.S. Army for 12 years and 9 months. Ernesto served during the years of the Cold War and Gulf War.
Patrolman Ernesto Serna was shot and killed after confronting a shoplifter. Patrolman Serna was working an extra-duty assignment as security at the Wal-Mart Store. Patrolman Serna saw a male take a coat from the rack and walk out of the store without paying for it. He followed the shoplifter out of the store and stopped him in the parking lot. When Patrolman Serna confronted the suspect, he drew a handgun out from under his coat and opened fire, striking him once in the face. Patrolman Serna was able to return fire, and shot the suspect three times, killing him. Patrolman Serna was rushed to Thomason Hospital where he died shortly after 9 p.m. Patrolman Serna had served with the agency for two years where he was assigned to the Central Substation. He had just returned from Saudi Arabia where he served with the United States Army Reserve in Operation Desert Storm. He is survived by his wife and three sons. All of his sons became officers with the El Paso Police Department.
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In tribute
I served 1985 to 1993. You served too, before the badge - different uniform, same idea. You go where you are sent and you do not get to pick the call.
Patrolman Serna gave the El Paso Police Department 2 years.
Thank you for your service to the El Paso community, and for your service before it. Gone but never to be forgotten.
Rest easy, brother.
— S. Vincent Anthony, U.S. Army 1985-1993
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