Galesburg Reporter

In a May 19 Facebook post, Rep. Travis Weaver (R-Pekin) reacted to the unexpected death of a Pekin Police officer.

“An unspeakable tragedy,” he wrote on Facebook. “I'm heartbroken to learn of this brave officer’s passing, and we thank him for his incredible service to Pekin and the community.”

Though no cause of death was released, 1470 WMBD reported Officer Daniel Graber’s death on May 17 wasn’t in the line of duty. It reported on a Facebook post from the Pekin Police Department that said his death came "suddenly and unexpectedly."

Weaver shared a link to a 25 News report about the community's reaction to the officer's death. The news station reported on a Facebook post shared by Pekin Police Chief John Dossey. “As we began the journey home with this officer earlier this morning, I am sure I was not alone as emotions began to flood out of me,” he said on Facebook. “For those of you who had the honor of seeing the procession it was stunning. To see all the support from the many agencies who just learned of this sad event, and to take time out of their day to support our fallen officer was simply amazing.”

1470 WMBD reported a procession for Graber passed City Hall to Broadway and Court Street and Court and Veterans Drive.

“You lose one of your own, there’s a struggle. We’re a family. The community’s part of that. It’s just been phenomenal, the outreach and to see the people who care and want to be a part of that,” Dossey told 1470 WMBD.

Graber’s online obituary said that he started as a patrolman with Pekin Police on Dec. 27, 1999, and he worked third shift. It also said that he enjoyed duck hunting, had a sense of humor, and was an avid collector of Star Wars items. He is survived by his wife, Lindsay; son Mason; his parents, Jerry and Mary Graber. He is also survived by his sisters and extended family.

“He was a funny man. Honestly, I don’t know anyone funnier than him. Even in the movies, no one can beat Dan,” Graber’s son told Central Illinois Proud.

Graber's memorial service was May 24, and drew law enforcement personnel from across the state. 

Central Illinois Proud reported on Graber’s funeral and the community’s response. 

“Escorted by dozens of police cars, motorcycles and ambulances, local residents paid their respects as Wednesday’s funeral procession crossed town to Prairie Haven Cemetery," Central Illinois Proud reported. 

Peoria Police Officer Lt. Chad Oberle grew up with Graber. Oberle commented on the crowds turning out to pay their respects. "That was great. Seeing the community, it shows how much everyone loved him and how great of a person he really was and what an impact he made on the people of the City of Pekin,” he said.

Dossey said he is grateful for the community support. “I think today’s community show of support really sent a message to the officers that they matter…Out of their cars, hands over their hearts to pay their respects. I’ve been doing this for almost 40 years, I’ve never seen that. It was stunning just to see that,” he said.

Dignity Memorial wrote Graber was a member of the Pekin Police Officers Association and the Pekin Police Auxiliary.

Weaver represents the 93rd House District. He lives in Edwards, and according to his House biography, has worked in finance and strategy roles at Caterpillar while simultaneously investing and playing an executive role in various local startup businesses. He also tutors GED students, is the Chairman of the Education Committee at Wildlife Prairie Park, and serves as a substitute teacher.