Former Marine and police officer with the Escondido Police Department, Brett Byler passed away on November 14, 2021 after a brave and valiant fight with a glioblastoma. After serving in the Marine Corps, Brett became a police officer and served with the Department of Defense, the San Diego Police Department, and most recently with the Escondido Police Department.
On February 16, 2020, Brett Byler was found to have a large 5.5 cm brain tumor, which had grown and crossed the mid line of his brain. He underwent surgery on February 20, 2020 to remove the majority of the tumor. He fought courageously though numerous treatments all while spending as much time as he possibly could with his family and loved ones. Brett is survived by his wife, Mariah, and their three young daughters Brynlee, Barrett, and Bellamy.
A few thoughts from Escondido Chief of Police, Edward Varso, “Brett was an outstanding police officer who started his career with the San Diego Police Department, graduating from the police academy in October 2012. On January 25, 2016, Brett was hired by the Escondido Police Department, which expanded the Byler family presence at EPD. Brett went on to become a member of the Unmanned Aerial Systems Unit in 2017, and was selected to be a School Resource Officer in September 2019. Brett will always be remembered for his love of police work and his phenomenal sense of humor. In fact, during my last visit with Brett, he was still enjoying his time watching videos of vehicle pursuits. Brett LOVED being a cop!”
The Byler family was featured on the Today Show in April of 2020. This piece highlights the love and support the Byler Family has received from the community:
https://www.today.com/parents/police-officer-dad-glioblastoma-gets-birthday-paradet178554
Donations can made at https://www.gofundme.com/f/byler-family
