Story Created:
Jul 18, 2008 at 12:13 PM EST
Story Updated:
Jul 19, 2008 at 2:44 PM EST
FORT MYERS, Fla. - FORT MYERS, Fla. - Fort Myers Police Officer Andrew Widman was killed early Friday morning.
Fort Myers Police say Officer Widman was shot in the face when he was responding to a domestic dispute on the streets of Downtown Fort Myers.
Officer Widman never had an opportunity to fight back.
Other police officers quickly responded to the shooting.
The suspect has been identified as 26-year-old Abel Arango of Naples.
Fort Myers Police says the suspect led police on a short foot chase through the Fort Myers RiverDistrict. The gunman fired at the other officers while leading them on the chase. Police officers then returned fire, killing the suspect.
30-year-old officer Andrew Widman had only been with the Fort Myers police department for a little more than a year, joining the department after working as a missionary. He was married, with three children between the ages of 2 and 5.
Andrew Widman Memorial FundFifth Third Bank
#7432124563
Goldstein, Buckley, Cechman, Rice & Purtz sets up fund for slain policeman’s familyAny donations should be made out to The Andrew Widman Family Fund, and may be dropped off or mailed to any one of the law firm’s five offices or at either of the two Preferred Community Bank branches.
Firm Offices:
Fort Myers - 1515 Broadway 33901
Cape Coral- 1603 Hancock Bridge Parkway 33990
Lehigh Acres - 4802 Lee Boulevard 33971
Naples - 4947 North Tamiami Trail Suite 101 34103
Port Charlotte - 2852 Tamiami Trail Suite 1 33952
Preferred Community Bank Offices:
Fort Myers - 4391 Colonial Blvd 33966
Lehigh Acres - 3020 Lee Blvd 33971
Fort Myers Police Department Fallen Officer Memorial You can click on this link to donate money to build a fallen officer memorial for the Fort Myers Police Department.
If you knew Officer Widman contact WINK News at
assignments@winknews.com
Monday, Jul 28 at 6:23 PM Anonymous wrote ...
Bay county sheriffs just recently had two deputies able to act as immigration officials. I think it would be great if other departments had officers trained to deport scumbags like this. You can read about the training at newsherald.com.
Thursday, Jul 24 at 3:44 AM No hate wrote ...
Before judging a nationality or race, I'd love to remind to some of you that there are many good cubans that work for the police department and do an excellent job every day. It happened that was a cuban, but it could have been from any other country or perhaps born here in Fort Myers.
Wednesday, Jul 23 at 9:56 PM teresa wrote ...
Lina how can you defend abel? He had a criminal past that was pretty extensive. If this is what you consider a good heart, then you have very poor judgement! And Robert J. cop killers come in all sizes, sexes, and races. What they have in common is a criminal history. Don't use this tragic event to air your racist views. R.I.P. Officer Widman my prayers and thoughts are with you and your family.
Wednesday, Jul 23 at 6:37 PM Paul M wrote ...
I totally agree the girlfriend need's to be prosecuted for enabeling a felon to escape an active warrant.And to be able to walk around with a loaded 9mm gun as well as being around alcohol she also knew he was in violation of parole. He may have been the one who pulled the trigger but she did her part as well. After all it was because of her boyfreinds repeated violence against her that lead Officer Widman to her rescue and his ultimate death.I turly hope that law enforcement can get her.
Sunday, Jul 20 at 1:09 AM cop wife wrote ...
robert j fyi all cubans don't come to this country to do horrible thins like this guy did we come to work and have a better life and let's not blame ONLY CUBANS anybody could be a criminal you need to wahs more tv....my prayers to the family and friends of this brave cop that wanted to safe someones life
Saturday, Jul 19 at 9:12 PM Lina wrote ...
I knew Abel just as those of you knew the officer. He had a good heart. God searches out hearts not minds. I can't speak for what was going through Abe's mind that night, but I know he had a good heart. It is my prayer, that before he left us, he asked God for forgiveness and repented. Just as so many of US need to do daily. Abel made a fatal mistake that he can't take back...please forgive him. As we all need to be afforded forgiveness many times in our lives! ONLY JESUS WAS PERFECT.
Saturday, Jul 19 at 5:33 PM Scott in Fort Myers wrote ...
I am sorry I this sounds alittle unappropriate but if anyone even thinks of speaking on this murdering monsters's behaf, they need to fell what it's like to have one of their love ones shot point blank and merciless in the face and then see what they to say!!! No excuse for this!!! It's too bad he was shot because it would have been nice to see the letal injection go through this monsters veins. I'm sorry but it's the truth!! Thank you for this opportunity to speak!!!!
Saturday, Jul 19 at 3:18 PM BeHappyForToday! wrote ...
First off my condolences to the families of both victims, Andrew Widman and My friend Abel. I in no way condone the loss of precious life. I just happen to know Abel and can tell you that when I watched the news, they painted a picture of some guy who was just a peice of sh*t. when in fact he was one of those few guys that you wished well...a humble attitude yet no non-sense type of guy... Is a tradegy for many on both sides Rest in peace my friend!
Saturday, Jul 19 at 3:05 PM ANONYMOUS wrote ...
I HOPE THE GIRLFRIEND IS ARRESTED!!! SHE KNEW THE POS HAD A WARRANT FOR HIS ARREST AND DID NOT TURN HIM IN....SHE IS JUST AS GUILTY AS HE IS
Saturday, Jul 19 at 2:41 PM Tracie Grier and Jon Harms wrote ...
No words can describe the pain you and your family is going through. Our thoughts and prayers go out to you and your family. My fiance recently lost his father and the pain is so hard. You always ask why him why not someone else? You will have the support from your family and friends and the community. God Bless.
Saturday, Jul 19 at 2:35 PM angrycitizen wrote ...
This guy was a fugitive from justice, was arrested in mid-May in Lee County and released the very next day!!!!!!!!!!! I hope the officers family sues the judge and the state attorneys office!!!!! Rest in Peace Officer Widman I am sorry that this had to happen because the Lee County courts have failed the community!!!
Saturday, Jul 19 at 1:49 PM Michigan Judge wrote ...
It's too bad that Florida does not crack the whip a little harder. Abel Arango according to the Lee County Sheriffs' Dept website was arrested on 5/17/08 for 5 felony charges involving cocaine and was released on 5/18/08 after being incarcerated for no more than 24 hrs. So here he it is, almost 2 months to the day of his release/bonded out (100K total!!) and he is bar hopping/drinking/and walking around with a loaded handgun. Something is not right with that picture. God Bless the family.
Saturday, Jul 19 at 12:15 PM Terri Burghardt wrote ...
I cannot relate my grief. I have know the widman family since our boys played together as very little ones. I have dinner now and then with his mom, she cried and prayed when she learned of my son's luekemia, now my heart bleeds for her and all of the family.They love each other as none i have ever seen. God's will is hard, she has told me before. I know their faith will get them through, but still Mart, why? My heart goes out to all of you and his so young family. Love, me.
Saturday, Jul 19 at 10:29 AM Amanda wrote ...
It saddens me to see someone who was out to do good and protect and keep or streets safe, had to die invane the way he did. My heart goes out to his friends and family. I know how hard it is to lose a dad and I hope his children will always know that there dad was a hero just trying to keep the world alittle safer for them and everyone else. My heart truly goes out to everyone that has to feel the pain from this. All becuase some out of control person had no remorse for taking a persons life
Saturday, Jul 19 at 9:15 AM Robert J wrote ...
ONE OF THE PREVIOUS POST REFERS TO ILLEGAL IMMIGRATION AND THE SOUTHERN/MEXICAN BORDER NOT BEING SECURE. THIS SCUM WAS OF CUBAN DESCENT. WHY ARE WE STILL LETTING THE CUBANS IN? THEY COME HERE, SETUP GROW HOUSES IN OUR AREA AND LAUGH IN THE FACES OF THE LAW! YEAH, LAUGH AND SAY, "WHAT ARE THE STUPID AMERICANS GOING TO DO; DEPORT US?"
Saturday, Jul 19 at 8:56 AM Frank wrote ...
God Bless de family of Officer Widman, my heart and prayers goes out to his family. No human life deserve this. P.S. i have experience in Fence installation, i would like to help to finish the fence as a small way of giving back for his work in the community and for his family..Please contact me at naranfra1@yahoo.com
Saturday, Jul 19 at 8:38 AM Tami Treloar wrote ...
I hope that Officer Widmans family knows what a hero he is. My family's thoughts and prayers are with them now and for the rest of their days until they are reunited again. God Bless!!!!!
Saturday, Jul 19 at 8:21 AM jenn wrote ...
A simple reminder to all of us who pass judgment when we are pulled over for speeding, or for questioning police without understanding. There is a reason the men and women in Blue do what they do. It's always, ALWAYS about protecting you. To all of you who wear that badge to serve and protect, You are just as important as our troops, while they protect our land you protect our towns. Thank you for everything you do. And I am so sorry for what you have to go through! Gods Bless
Saturday, Jul 19 at 12:58 AM A PROUD FORT MYERS MOTHER wrote ...
I think what Wink 96.9 and Crue did tonight for the officer was great and show what our town is about, the staff at crue was great! and the guys from wink were so nice they one young man (I think his name tag said chris)spent time talking to my 2 little girl and thanked them for careing and made feel very special and gave them a little gift. thank Wink t.v. and Wink 96.9 for careing about yor town.Im proud to call Wink T.V. and Radio my stations -Donna k.-
Saturday, Jul 19 at 12:16 AM ANONYMOUS wrote ...
MY HEART AND PRAYERS GO OUT TO OFFICER WIDMANS WIFE AND THREE CHILDREN, HIS FAMILY AND FRIENDS, AND THE OFFICERS OF OUR COMMUNITY WHO RISK THE THEIR LIVES EVERYDAY TO PROTECT US. I DID KNOW THE SUSPECT AND NOTHING I COULD SAY WOULD CHANGE YOUR MIND ABOUT HIM WHAT HE DID IS UNFORGIVEABLE AND A TRAGEDY BUT HE ALSO LEFT BEHIND A BEAUTIFUL BABY GIRL 10 MONTHS OF AGE WE DO NOT CHOOSE WHO ARE PARENTS ARE AND SHE SHOULD NOT BE LEFT OUT I LOVE YOU CRYSTAL AND KIANNA MY HEART IS WITH YOU ALWAYS
Friday, Jul 18 at 11:24 PM WILLIAM RILEY NAFBNV wrote ...
BRAVE OFFICER WHO DAYS EARLIER WOULD HAVE PUT HIS LIFE ON THE LINE TO PROTECT THE VERY MAN THAT TOOK HIS LIFE. GOD BLESS THE FAMILY OF OFFICER WIDMAN
Friday, Jul 18 at 11:23 PM 112 LE wrote ...
I, We... Will read books... Thank You Widman, to show us the way. it didn't have to be like this. We will miss you as a friend and as a part of this World. Don't worry, I will be around your house and family and we will take care of the fence you were finishing. GOD SPEED...
Friday, Jul 18 at 11:22 PM The Metz Family wrote ...
Our heart goes out to this family. It is truly a evil world that we live in, taking a husband,friend,father, and gardian of the public. Your family will be in our prayers. And God will heal your wounded hearts.
Friday, Jul 18 at 11:13 PM Jimmy Link wrote ...
The loss of a human life is great no matter what line of work a person is in. The officer did the best he could in the situation, and was repaid by losing his life. My heart goes out to his family and children. The killer got what he deserved. He wanted to "go out Miami Style," well he got his wish. I know Saint Michael is with the officer now and showing him home. Godspeed Officer Whitman.
Friday, Jul 18 at 11:06 PM George wrote ...
The murder of officer Widman can be traced directly to the illegal immigration by Latinos across our Southern border. Violence and criminality are an accepted way of life among Mexicans and OTM/Latinos. Just chexk out the narco-trafficker cartel drug wars currently going on along the Texas border. Every American should oppose amnesty and any forms of illegal immigration acceptance. I am glad this POS scum Arango is dead. RIP Andrew Widman.
Friday, Jul 18 at 10:46 PM Cecelia Sirene wrote ...
I am so sorry to hear the of another police officer my heart goes out to his wife,kids and the rest of his family....
Friday, Jul 18 at 10:20 PM Debbie wrote ...
So sorry to hear about officer Widman's untimely death. My prayers are with his wife,children and his fellow officers. He was a hero and will never be forgotten. God bless you and your family.
Friday, Jul 18 at 10:18 PM Nita wrote ...
MY HEART GOES OUT TO THE YOUNG OFFICER WHO LOST HIS LIFE.HIS WIFE AND KIDS WILL BE IN MY PRAYERS. I FEEL LIKE JUSTICE HAVE BEEN SERVED MAYBE NOT IN THE COURT ROOM.BUT JUSTICE IS DONE!
Friday, Jul 18 at 10:03 PM julie ford wrote ...
First I want to say my prayers go out to his wife and family...It's so hard for the ones left behind.I knew Andrew from Aprils Hair Designs. I often had the privledge of cutting his hair. I remember when he was in the academy to become a police officer. He always seemed so happy to have his family and to be doing something to in life that made a difference. Its so sad that this young man had to loose his life so soon.He really was one of the good ones. I'm sure he will be missed by many.
Friday, Jul 18 at 9:27 PM Louis C. wrote ...
There is only one thing greater than to live a life in the service and defense of others, and that is to die in the service and defense of others. Fort Myers Police Officer Andrew Widman gave both of these, my prayers to his wife, kids, and all FMPD brothers, stay safe.
Friday, Jul 18 at 9:26 PM anonymous wrote ...
He's gonna go out "Miami Style" and take a cop with him. What a loser. It figures he's been arrested before. Has anyone ever noticed that when stuff like this happens, and they have a picture of the criminal, almost always he's wearing an orange jumpsuit? They don't wear orange jumpsuits because wearing one is cool.
Friday, Jul 18 at 8:55 PM G. Anthony wrote ...
I am glad that the ANIMAL who killed that brave man is about to rot in hell.
Friday, Jul 18 at 8:50 PM A childhood friend wrote ...
What has happened today is truly trageic! Andy and I grew up together both attending Toledo Christian School. He was a great man of God back then and an even stronger one now. His life and committment to God was truly an inspiration for all who knew him. My thoughts and prayers go out to his wife, children and all his family. Andy will be dearly missed, but we find comfort in knowing he is with his Lord and Savior.
Friday, Jul 18 at 8:27 PM Amy K. wrote ...
My heart and prayers go out to this hero's family. We are indebted to Andrew Widman for his courage and ultmate sacrifice. May this be a reminder to all of the service, the risk and sometimes the ultimate sacrifice men and women in law enforcement everywhere face. God bless his wife and children and may this hero rest in peace...
Friday, Jul 18 at 7:56 PM Melody wrote ...
I pray his wife and kids are able to forgive this Abel Arango guy for what he did. Andrew lived a Christian life and that is all about forgiveness. As long as you carry the message you are always a missionary no mater if you're in a foreign country or not. I know he'd want us all to forgive, cause we are ALL guilty.
Friday, Jul 18 at 7:27 PM Armando Fernandez wrote ...
No se que expresar ante tal tragedia, estoy en shock todavia, lo siento, solo dire que lleguen mis mas sinceras condolencias a su viuda e hijos por este sufrimiento que pasan en estos momentos, y para ti Oficial Widman, que Dios te acoja en su santo seno, siempre te recordaremos, descansa en paz
Friday, Jul 18 at 7:16 PM LUIS wrote ...
Our heart with the family of the officer, but this is a alert call to the judges, why a man with the background of Abel Arango is free parting on the streets? It's cause they pay the bond? I'ts all that matters? money? They should think what they can do on the streets and keep that kind of people behind bars and prevent things like that. Rest in peace officer Widman
Friday, Jul 18 at 7:10 PM KC wrote ...
It is so sad that a police officer was killed.My heart goes out to all his family.He is now one of Gods Angels and we all know that the one who took his life is in HELL and on fire where he needs to be.God bless all men and women who put there lives out there 24/7 for the rest of us they are life's TRUE HERO'S.Officer Andrew Widman may you rest in peace.God bless .........
Friday, Jul 18 at 6:56 PM Linda wrote ...
I was so very sad to hear about officer Widman. I work at at a youth Camp and our theme for this week was HEROES. We spent all morning talking about Officer Widman and his heroic actions. Our students wanted to send him messages, so we bought some ballons placed notes Inside them, and released them . We know God is welcoming you, Officer Widman with open arms . God Bless you, and your Family' We are praying for you.
Friday, Jul 18 at 6:42 PM Karin P wrote ...
This fine man pulled me over a month ago on my way to work. He told me my tag light was out, & instead of giving me a ticket, he asked me to hold the flashlight while he changed the bulb. I am saddened by this tragic loss to all of us and especially for his widow and children. I pray for his eternal rest in God's care and for hope for his loved ones left behind.
Friday, Jul 18 at 6:29 PM summer hopper wrote ...
I think that the family needs time to grive
Friday, Jul 18 at 6:21 PM Anonymous wrote ...
We were saddened to hear about this Officers death.And the fact his children have to grow up without him. Because of some piece of scum.It's a sad thing a Cop had to die but the best thing is that the scum of the earth was killed. That's no lose of life by any means. We feel so bad for his wife and children but nothing for the scumbag's family. He got what he so deserved. I'm glad they are having a fund raiser for the Officer's family. Hope he rests in peace and the scumbad rots in hell. Thanks
Friday, Jul 18 at 6:15 PM Ohio Trooper wrote ...
I was returning from a funeral in Twinsburg, Ohio. Officer Joshua Miktarian was shot four times in the head by a 23 year old violator on July 13th. I received a call from my wife who informed me of Andy's death.Andy was three years behind me at Toledo Christian School. I didn't know Andy chose a career as an officer until I received the call.THANK YOU ANDY FOR YOUR SERVICE!GOD BLESS YOUR FAMILY!I KNOW YOU TRUSTED JESUS AS YOUR LORD AND SAVIOR AND WE WILL SEE YOU AGAIN ONE DAY!GOD IS IN CONTROL!
Friday, Jul 18 at 5:50 PM Ed Lopez wrote ...
My heart goes out to the family and friends of this brave officer. We will keep him in my prayers. Two months ago this offices gave me a ticket for running a stop sing, this Officer was the nicest officer I have ever seen he almost gave me a hart attack with his siren when he pulled me over, when I told him we both Crack up it was the Funniest thing I have ever seen he was a very nice Man, www.h2opowered.us H2o To HHo Free Unit for the wife of this officer help her save gas in the hard times
Friday, Jul 18 at 5:34 PM Nick wrote ...
Thanks to the Officers , who saved the state and City the expence of getting ridden of this killer. Our Hearts go out to His Family. May His Soul rest in PEACE
Friday, Jul 18 at 5:28 PM Anonymous wrote ...
MY HEART GOES OUT TO THE OFFICERS FAMILY,AND FOR THE EVIL GUY THAT SHOT OUR HERO, THERE WILL NO BE NO TRAIL HERE, BUT WHEN YOU FACE GOD THERE WILL!
Friday, Jul 18 at 5:20 PM anonymous wrote ...
It figures that the dirtbag is wearing a jail uniform ...i'm sure he has a rap sheet pages long. Wake up Florida your weak state attorneys and liberal judges are destroying this once great state.
Friday, Jul 18 at 4:56 PM sleepy wrote ...
Such a sad day. God bless you and your family officer. Thank you for being who you were and protecting our community.
Friday, Jul 18 at 4:32 PM Frank H. wrote ...
A cowardly act, by a low life coward. A Hero, Officer Widman will always be remembered, in our hearts, and iour prayers. My God bless the Widman Family. Let us ot forget the men and women who every day put there lives on the line. Abel Arango, my you rot in hell.
Friday, Jul 18 at 3:55 PM Brother wrote ...
Thank you Widman for backing me up in some of the calls. It was a pleasure working with you. You'll always be remember.
Friday, Jul 18 at 3:36 PM glenda wrote ...
my heart goes out to the famly and friends of this brave officer. Ill keep him in my prayers.
Friday, Jul 18 at 3:19 PM JASON wrote ...
THE SHOOTERS NAME IS ABEL ARANGO. SUCH A SAD DAY FOR FT MYERS POLICE DEPARTMENT. MAY GOD BLESS HIS FAMILY.
Friday, Jul 18 at 3:16 PM Law Enforcement Brother wrote ...
It very saddens my heart to hear of brother being taken from us. My thoughts and prayers go out to the family. Stand strong, your support will surely come from others, God Bless you.
Friday, Jul 18 at 2:58 PM Robert & Elizabeth Putnam wrote ...
To think that this dasterdly act had to happen to a Police Officer and a family man only doing his job helping and protecting the citizens of Fort Myers what a disgrace of a man this killer is he took Officer Widman away from his children and wife and his parents we greive for his family.
Friday, Jul 18 at 2:43 PM James Wolford, Cape Coral wrote ...
My wife and I are saddened by this young hero's untimely death. Why isn't there a drive to raise funds for his family?
Friday, Jul 18 at 2:36 PM Memorial? wrote ...
Why isn't there a fund raiser for the victim's family? During 9-11 we filled the boots of fireman for the families of those who died in the Twin Towers.
Friday, Jul 18 at 2:14 PM jmc wrote ...
Maybe its time to get gun off the street, change gun law, I'm not in favor of gun in cars at work place. my heart goes out to the family and co-officers, my son was once a ft myers police and always said it didn't pay enough to be shot at.
Friday, Jul 18 at 2:11 PM Patti wrote ...
A day like today makes you realize that you never know when your last day is. My heart and prayers go to his widow and children. I'm glad that this crime did not go unsolved.
Friday, Jul 18 at 1:57 PM doris ortega wrote ...
iam very sorry and sad to be awaken with such a news. iam very gratefull to the police officer like of. whitman that everyday place there life in danger, to save other. i admired the effort and strength of the fort myers police department, sherriff dept. for the courage to accept such a big lost. and their fraternal support is admirable. i will pray for the rest of soul officer. whitman and for the blessing of god to provide his wife and relatives with stregh and understanding to pull troug
Friday, Jul 18 at 1:42 PM Jack wrote ...
He was a hero.
Friday, Jul 18 at 1:23 PM The Balmer Family wrote ...
What a sad day for Lee county. It's a shame the gunman couldn't resolve his issues without violence. Our family sends our thoughts and prayers to the family and the Ft. Myers P.D.. He may be fallen... but never forgotten....
Friday, Jul 18 at 1:13 PM MARK E. KORF wrote ...
It is sickening to see such disreguard for human life, especially when it is a husband,father,and most of all a man dedicating his life to protect and serve the same man who cut his life short and changed the lives of all who knew him. God bless his family...
Friday, Jul 18 at 1:12 PM Anonymous wrote ...
my heart goes out to his family and for the animal who did this, no trial, send him right to the chamber! there are witnesses after all.
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