A Statement from Chief Jeffrey A. Balon:
It is with a heavy heart that I announce yet another loss to the Valparaiso Police Department (VPD) family. Sadly, on April 21, 2022, Retired Assistant Chief William “Buddy” Collins lost his life in a motor vehicle crash at 325 E. and U.S. Hwy 30.
Assistant Chief Collins proudly served the citizens of Valparaiso for 35 years, from July 1, 1969, to January 30, 2005. He was beyond proud to be a VPD Officer, and he exemplified that pride by wearing his trademark gold necklace with a miniature Valparaiso Police Department badge charm.
Even after his retirement, it was clear that he loved, and continued to love, each and every member of the VPD family. Assistant Chief Collins will be remembered for his warm greetings, which always included a smile and a handshake. We pray for his beloved wife, Nancy, as she recovers from injuries she sustained in the crash.
Our VPD family has experienced a lot of loss in the past two years. Please keep VPD in your thoughts and prayers as we mourn the loss of Assistant Chief Collins.