James Saavedra, a 40-year-old male, tragically passed away on December 19, 2007, in Port of Corpus Christi, Texas. He was a dedicated police officer serving with the Port of Corpus Christi Police Department. On the day of his death, Officer Saavedra was at the department's shooting range on the 4000 block of Rincon Road, where he and another range master were sighting in a rifle. Despite wearing a bullet-resistant vest, a rifle round penetrated his vest, leading to his untimely death.
The shooting occurred at a range of approximately two feet, and Officer Saavedra was pronounced dead at a hospital one hour later.
Officer Saavedra's death was ruled as an accidental discharge of a firearm. He had served with the Port of Corpus Christi Police Department for four years and had previously served with the Corpus Christi Independent School District Police Department and the Nueces County Constable's Office. He was survived by his wife, two daughters, a son, his parents, and a brother.
The investigation into Officer Saavedra's death was handled by the Corpus Christi Police Department. The officer involved in the shooting, Eric Giannamore, was placed on administrative leave with pay during the investigation. Both Saavedra and Giannamore were qualified range masters and experienced firearms instructors. The incident was a tragic accident, and no criminal charges were filed against Officer Giannamore. The Port of Corpus Christi Police Department and the community mourned the loss of Officer Saavedra, who was remembered as an exceptional and highly experienced police officer and a wonderful man.
