AUSTIN, Texas — A street in Austin will be renamed in honor of a San Marcos Police Department officer and Austin native who was killed in the line of duty more than four years ago.
Officer Justin Putnam was killed and two other officers were injured when they responded to a domestic disturbance call at Twin Lake Villas Apartments on Hunter Road in San Marcos on April 18, 2020. Alfredo Perez Delacruz allegedly ambushed the officers as they responded. Putnam died on the scene while Officers Franco Stewart and Justin Mueller sustained life-threatening injuries from which they later recovered.
A procession was held a few days after Putnam’s death, but COVID-19 forced the postponement of a public funeral until June 2021.
Putnam grew up in Austin, graduating from Westwood High School in 2007 and from Texas State University with honors in 2011. He was a life-long close friend of actor Glen Powell, another Austin native.
Putnam served the San Marcos Police Department for five-and-a-half years. He was assigned to the patrol division and excelled as a field training officer. The department said at the time of his death that Putnam would be remembered for his care and commitment to the community, both on- and off-duty.
Now, Putnam is being honored with a street in his hometown. On Dec. 17, at 10 a.m., Councilmember Mackenzie Kelly will hold a press conference at the intersection of Lake Creek Parkway and Mellow Meadows, where a portion of the road will be officially recognized as Officer Justin Putnam Drive. Members of the public are encouraged to attend the honorary renaming event.
“Renaming this street in honor of Officer Putnam is a small but significant way for us to express our gratitude for his service and sacrifice,” Kelly said in a press release “His bravery and commitment to the community will always be remembered, and we hope this tribute serves as a constant reminder of his legacy.”