Family of fallen Virginia police officer say expecting father, 25, ‘never hesitated’ to help those in need

The tragic loss of two Virginia Beach police officers, Cameron Girvin and Christopher Reese, during a late-night traffic stop has sent shockwaves through their community and beyond. The officers were ambushed by John McCoy III, a convicted felon, who shot them while they were defenseless on the ground. McCoy later took his own life, leaving behind a trail of devastating consequences for the families and colleagues of the slain officers. Officer Girvin, a 25-year-old expectant father, was described by his family and peers as a “breath of fresh air” whose passion for law enforcement began at the tender age of five. His unwavering dedication to serving and protecting his community was evident throughout his life, a quality that inspired those around him and left a lasting impact.

From a young age, Cameron Girvin was destined for a career in law enforcement. Growing up in Gates, New York, he was raised by his grandmother, Barbara Girvin, who had a profound influence on his life. Cameron’s fascination with police work began when he was just five years old, and he often dressed up as a police officer for school events and Halloween. This childhood ambition only grew stronger as he entered high school, where he enrolled in criminal justice classes and even participated in undercover stings with local law enforcement agencies. His dedication was so evident that he interned with the Gates Police Department, where he stood out for his professionalism and eagerness to learn. Joshua Bowman, a former investigator with the Gates Police Department, remembered Cameron as a standout intern who always wore a business suit during ride-alongs, showcasing his respect for the profession even before he officially became an officer.

Cameron’s journey into law enforcement took him from New York to Virginia, where he joined the Virginia Beach Police Department in 2020. Despite receiving offers from other agencies, including the Texas Border Patrol, he chose Virginia Beach because it was closer to his family in Gates. His grandmother recalled how determined he was to pursue his dreams, saying, “He just knew what he wanted, and he was going to go after it.” Once in Virginia, Cameron found happiness not only in his work but also in his personal life. He married his high school sweetheart, Jessica, and the couple recently celebrated their love by renewing their vows in front of friends and family. Tragically, Jessica is now expecting their first child, who is due this summer. The loss of Cameron has left his family and loved ones heartbroken, with Barbara Girvin describing her granddaughter-in-law as “emotionally distraught.”

Cameron Girvin’s personality and character left an indelible mark on everyone he encountered. His family and colleagues described him as the “life of the party,” a man with an outgoing personality who was always willing to help those in need. Whether it was offering a listening ear or rushing to the rescue, Cameron’s selflessness and kindness were qualities that defines his life. His grandmother remembered him as a “jokester” who had so many friends that sleepovers at their home often required setting up tents in the backyard. This same spirit of camaraderie extended into his professional life, where he quickly became a beloved figure among his fellow officers. Despite the inherent dangers of his job, Cameron never wavered in his commitment to serving his community. His family noted that even when he saw reports of officers being killed in the line of duty, he remained undeterred, convinced that his role was to protect and serve.

The tragic circumstances of Cameron and Christopher Reese’s deaths have reignited conversations about the dangers of traffic stops, often regarded as one of the most unpredictable and perilous aspects of police work. Joshua Bowman, a 24-year law enforcement veteran, emphasized that traffic stops are “never routine,” as officers have no way of knowing the mental state or intentions of the individuals they are engaging with. Even with the utmost caution, situations can escalate in an instant, as they did on that fateful night. Bowman reflected on the senseless loss, saying, “It’s not fair. Not fair at all,” and expressed his hope that Cameron’s legacy would inspire others to follow in his footsteps. The ripple effects of Cameron’s death extend far beyond Virginia Beach, touching the lives of those who knew him in New York and countless others who were inspired by his story.

In the aftermath of this tragedy, the community has come together to support the families of the fallen officers. A GoFundMe page created to assist the Girvin family has already raised over $70,000, a testament to the outpouring of love and solidarity. Jessica Girvin, who is grieving the loss of her husband while preparing to welcome their first child, is working alongside Christopher Reese’s wife to organize a joint police funeral for the two officers. As the community mourns the loss of these two heroes, Cameron Girvin’s legacy lives on through the countless lives he touched and the unwavering commitment he had to his work. His story serves as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made by law enforcement officers and the profound impact they have on the communities they serve.