NARTA Memorial Garden Officially Dedicated, 3 Fallen Officers Honored

Published on May 28, 2026

On May 20, the Northern Arizona Regional Training Academy (NARTA) officially dedicated its new Memorial Garden at Yavapai College in Prescott, honoring the lives, service, and sacrifice of three fallen law enforcement officers: Sgt. Rick “R Lo” Lopez and Sgt. Tommy Tieman of Yavapai County Sheriff’s Office, and Officer Tyler Stewart of Flagstaff Police Department.

Family members, colleagues, and representatives from nearly a dozen agencies gathered to pay tribute. American flags that had flown at half‑staff over the NARTA Academy were presented to the widows of Sgt. Lopez and Sgt. Tieman, and to the Flagstaff Police Chief in honor of Officer Stewart.

Speakers reflected on each officer’s dedication to service: Officer Stewart, whose End of Watch was December 2013, is honored through the NARTA Honor Recruit Award and a foundation that continues to support first responders. Sgt. Lopez, who passed in June 2022, was remembered as an exceptional leader who cared deeply for his community and was known for his enthusiasm for the annual Shop With A Cop event each December. Sgt. Tieman, who passed in March 2023, was celebrated for his selflessness, compassion, and unwavering commitment to helping others. He was described as a shining example of someone who showed God’s love through everyday actions.

Leaders from YCSO, Flagstaff PD, and NARTA spoke about the lasting impact these men made, both in uniform and in the lives of those around them.

The NARTA Memorial Garden, located at 1100 E. Sheldon St. (Building 29) in Prescott, is open to the public and offers a quiet place to honor and reflect on the heroes who gave everything in service to their communities.