Reno Police Detective's Death Came Same Day as TPO Was Extended Against Him For One Year

"It is with heavy hearts that we join the Reno Police Department in mourning the tragic passing of Detective Thomas Lopey," the Washoe County Sheriff's Office wrote today with this photo.

"Detective Lopey dedicated his life to service, first through his military service and later through his commitment to protecting and serving our community here at home. He was respected by his fellow officers, valued as a friend, and shared strong relationships with many members of our Office.

The Washoe County Sheriff’s Office stands alongside the men and women of the Reno Police Department, as well as Detective Lopey’s family, friends, and loved ones, during this incredibly difficult time. This loss is felt far beyond a single agency, impacting our entire public safety family and the community we collectively serve. We extend our deepest condolences to everyone grieving this heartbreaking loss," the statement indicated.

According to Washoe County court records, Lopey had a temporary protection order extended against him on Thursday May 21st for one year following a domestic violence protection request initially sought against him on April 29th.

The two names from those court records were listed as owners of a house in Sparks right by where there was a massive police presence last Thursday night first reported by Our Town Reno, which was then followed by a procession of law enforcement vehicles and a somber gathering at the coroner’s office. On Friday, there was another procession and gathering of law enforcement at a funeral home in downtown Reno.

In a Facebook post from 2024, Reno councilwoman Naomi Duerr posted a photo of herself smiling with Lopey then presented as the President of the Reno Police Protective Association.

Lopey was also in headlines in recent years for being one of two officers reported to have shot at 21-year-old Nicolas Sedano when he was killed in 2018 in the area of East Peckham Lane and Neil Road while in his car. In 2020, the Washoe County District Attorney Chris Hicks issued a 46-page reporting concluding the shooting and killing was justified.

We have contacted the coroner’s office but have not heard back on confirmation of his death from that office or cause of death.

“Detective Lopey proudly served his country in the United States Army during Operation Iraqi Freedom before continuing his service in the National Guard as a combat engineer. He later dedicated his life to law enforcement, serving first with the Washoe County Sheriff’s Office before joining the Reno Police Department, where he faithfully served the Reno community for nearly 13 years,” Reno PD wrote earlier today.

“During his career with the Reno Police Department, Detective Lopey served as a Patrol Training Officer, Regional Gang Unit detective, SWAT Team member, and President of the Reno Police Protective Association. He was respected throughout the department for his leadership, mentorship, and unwavering commitment to serving others.

Detective Lopey is survived by his wife and daughter.”

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