Memorial service for Parole Agent Joshua Byrd
California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation
CDCR leaders, coworkers, law enforcement agencies, and state officials gathered at the memorial service to pay their final respects to fallen Parole Agent Joshua Byrd.
“Parole Agent Joshua Byrd wasn’t just a name in the system. He was a colleague, a protector, a man of God who showed up day after day to do a job that some people don’t understand and wouldn’t have the courage to do,” said Jason Johnson, CDCR Undersecretary of Operations. “July 17, 2025, will be a day I will never forget for the rest of my life.”
Agencies from across California and beyond have publicly shown their support for Agent Byrd as well as the department.
“In the face of heartbreak, we have also witnessed powerful acts of unity and support,” said Heather Bowlds, acting director of CDCR’s Division of Adult Parole Operations. “Law enforcement agencies across the state and country have stood with us during this difficult time.”
CDCR Press Release Re: Parole Agent Joshua Byrd
Parole Agent Joshua Byrd Honored Today at Memorial for his Service and Sacrifice
July 29, 2025
Parole Agent Joshua Byrd of the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation (CDCR), Division of Adult Parole Operations (DAPO) was honored at a memorial service today after dying tragically in the line of duty on July 17, 2025.
Family members and hundreds of law enforcement personnel – from CDCR, throughout California and neighboring states – came together to pay solemn tribute for Agent Byrd at Bayside Church. In multiple heartfelt eulogies, Agent Byrd was remembered as a devoted husband, father and friend. He was recognized for his calm presence “superpower,” his public service and ultimate sacrifice. Gov. Gavin Newsom was in attendance and prior to the service presented the family with a California flag.
“Agent Joshua Byrd’s service exemplifies courage and dedication,” said CDCR Secretary Jeff Macomber. “His legacy will always be remembered, and we extend the deepest condolences to his family, friends, and colleagues during this difficult time. We are forever humbled by the sacrifice he made in service of our community.”
Agent Byrd, 40, joined CDCR as a cadet at CDCR’s correctional officer academy in June 2014. After serving as a correctional officer (promoted to correctional sergeant in 2020) at the California Medical Facility, he joined the DAPO Oakland parole office as a parole agent in October 2024.
Previously, Agent Byrd served in the U.S. Navy for more than nine years and received several awards and an honorable discharge in 2011.
Agent Byrd’s memorial consisted of full honors as is customary with a death in the line of duty. The service concluded with a Gauntlet Formation, CDCR Bagpiper, California Highway Patrol Riderless Horse and flyover, CDCR 21-gun salute, CDCR flag folding, and CDCR Taps.
Tributes for Agent Byrd
Tributes
Agent Byrd leaves a wife and three children.
Agent Byrd was shot and killed inside an Oakland parole office and through a swift and focused investigation, the suspect was arrested within hours of the shooting. The suspect has been charged with eight felonies including murder, car theft, robbery and being a felon in possession of a gun. In addition, he’s facing several special allegations, including killing a law enforcement officer and several gun enhancements. This is the first line-of-duty loss for CDCR since 2018.
In lieu of flowers, a memorial fund is being set up for the family. Cards, letters and contributions may be sent to: California Correctional Peace Officers Association, 755 Riverpoint Drive, Ste. 200, West Sacramento, CA 95605. Checks should be made payable to “Charles Schwab & Company” with the memo line “FBO family of Joshua Byrd.”