Bruce Wesley Harrolle

Officer/Paramedic Bruce Harrolle worked for the Arizona Department of Public Safety Aviation Unit. On October 13, 2008, the Air Rescue Helicopter Unit, based in Flagstaff, received a request from the Sedona Fire Department and the Yavapai County Sheriff’s Office to assist with the rescue of two stranded hikers on Bear Mountain. Officer Harrolle responded along with the pilot. While performing the rescue, they were able to get the male subject into the helicopter. While trying to assist the female into the helicopter, Officer Harrolle was struck by the helicopter rotor blades, resulting in his death. The pilot was able to fly both hikers to safety. Officer Harrolle was 36 years old and had served with the department for 9 years.

Harrolle spent his early years in Central Ohio, living with his mother, Nancy, and adopted brother, Brad. Every summer, he would visit his father, Merl, in Tucson, Arizona. This experience helped shape him into the resilient, compassionate man he became. From a young age, he dreamed of becoming a firefighter and paramedic. That passion for serving others never wavered.

Harrolle met his future wife, Angela, on a blind date. He had just begun his career with the Arizona DPS and Angela was starting her career as a Special Agent with the US Department of State. Their shared love of adventure and service connected them instantly, even while maintaining a long-distance relationship between Arizona and Washington D.C. They soon married before an assignment took them to Chile, where Harrolle continued his dedication to service and even completed his thesis in public safety administration while learning alongside US Marine Security Guards. Harrolle and Angela went on to have two children together, Addison and Justice. The family traveled the world together, filling their lives with cherished memories. His children were the pride of his life, and he invested every moment he could in being the most present, loving father. They made their home in Arizona, where Harrolle worked as an officer and paramedic aboard Arizona’s rescue helicopter. He witnessed many tragedies but also experienced the pure joy of delivering several babies in emergency settings. He was recognized for his role in the rescue and recovery efforts following the Osprey helicopter crash in southern Arizona in 2000, which claimed the lives of 19 Marines. His dedication in the face of tragedy exemplified his commitment to service and teamwork. Harrolle’s legacy is one of selfless service, positivity, compassion and leadership. His loss led to the passage of “Harrolle’s Law” in Arizona, ensuring continued access to health insurance for families of the fallen.

Officer/Paramedic Bruce Harrolle is survived by his loving wife, Angela, daughter, Addison, and son, Justice, mother, Nancy, brother, Brad and many other cherished family members.

The Tunnel to Towers Foundation has paid off the mortgage of the Harrolle family home through the Fallen First Responder Home Program.