Brentwood, TN – Honoring the Legacy of Officer Destin Legieza
Brentwood, TN – The city of Brentwood, Tennessee continues to carry the torch of remembrance for Officer Destin Legieza, whose life was tragically cut short in 2020 during a duty-related incident. Five years later, the pain of his loss still lingers, but so too does the warmth of his memory, amplified through acts of community solidarity, public tributes, and a shared commitment to keep his legacy alive.
This June, family, fellow officers, city officials, and residents gathered once again for a solemn wreath-laying ceremony at the Brentwood Police Department—a now-annual event that honors not only the sacrifice Officer Legieza made, but the deep relationships he cultivated throughout his service. The ceremony, held beneath clear skies and a respectfully lowered flag, featured powerful words of remembrance from Brentwood Police Chief Richard Hickey, prayers from local faith leaders, and a moment of silence that echoed the community’s collective grief and gratitude.
Heartfelt messages adorned handmade signs placed near the memorial site. Phrases such as “Forever Our Hero,” “Legieza Strong,” and “Never Forgotten” reflected the enduring admiration held for Officer Legieza, not only as a law enforcement officer but as a friend, son, husband, and role model.
Officer Destin Legieza had served with the Brentwood Police Department for five years prior to his death on June 18, 2020. He was killed in a head-on crash with a wrong-way driver while on patrol during the early morning hours. The 30-year-old officer was a proud graduate of Middle Tennessee State University and known for his strong work ethic, calm demeanor, and deep dedication to protecting others. To his colleagues, Destin was more than just a team member—he was a brother-in-blue, an encouraging partner, and someone who brought levity and compassion into even the most serious moments of police work.
In the years since his passing, the Destin Legieza Foundation was established to honor his life, values, and service. The foundation focuses on initiatives that reflect Destin’s character—supporting youth programs, public safety education, and officer wellness. Local businesses, schools, and civic organizations have rallied around the cause, raising funds through charity runs, golf tournaments, and benefit concerts. Every contribution—large or small—is part of the broader effort to continue what Destin started: building a safer, kinder, and more unified community.
Brentwood residents have also embraced the opportunity to teach younger generations about the importance of sacrifice, empathy, and public service through stories of Officer Legieza’s life. His example is being used in classrooms and youth mentorship programs to inspire future leaders and instill respect for those who dedicate their lives to the service of others.
For the Brentwood Police Department, every shift begins with a nod to Officer Legieza’s memory. His badge number, 216, remains retired in his honor. A plaque inside the station bears his image and a line from scripture: “Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends.” – John 15:13.
To this day, his widow, Heather Legieza, has remained an active and visible part of both the foundation and Brentwood’s broader public safety community. Her strength and resolve have inspired many who face grief and loss, reminding them that healing is possible when surrounded by love, remembrance, and purpose.
As the years go on, the city of Brentwood remains firmly committed to ensuring that Officer Destin Legieza is not remembered simply as a fallen officer, but as a shining example of how one person can profoundly shape a community. His name, his story, and his spirit continue to live on—not just in stone memorials or foundation banners—but in the hearts of those he touched, protected, and inspired.