Madisonville City and Madison County Officials gathered between Madisonville City Hall and the Police Station Monday to hold a Celebration of Life and Tree Dedication ceremony for MPD Sgt. Hector Camarillo on the one year anniversary of his passing.

The tree was donated by Carter Enterprises in honor of Sgt. Camarillo.

“We chose to donate a live oak tree as a living tribute to

Hector and his service and dedication to the community,” said the Carter family on their donation.

“It was something we have been planning since his death,” said MPD Chief Herbert Gilbert. “There is also a little memorial stone in the ground next to the tree, and we may get some benches, too, to go by the tree out there.”

Members of Camarillo’s family were in attendance along with numerous community fixtures, including Madison County Judge Tony Leago, Sheriff Bobby Adams, Madisonville City Manager Camilla Viator as well as Madisonville council members.

Multiple law enforcement officers who worked with Camarillo were also in attendance.

“A lot of people that knew him showed up for this dedication, it was a really nice crowd,” said Gilbert. “It was an emotional moment for them and myself.”

Pastor Ed Collins from the Shiloh Missionary Baptist Church offered a prayer to open the ceremony.

Camarillo served as a law enforcement officer in Madison County for over 20 years. He served with MPD from 2000-08 and again from 2012-20. He also served as Deputy for the Madison County Sheriff’s Office from 2008-12.

He passed away April 5, 2020 at the age of 47.