Raymond Kuuchi

Corporal Raymond Kuuchi of the United States Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Police Services suffered a fatal heart attack on September 2, 2024, while at the VA Law Enforcement Training Center in North Little Rock, Arkansas. While participating in Ground Defense and Recovery/Jujitsu training, he collapsed. Despite life-saving measures, he was unable to be resuscitated. He was 44 years old and had served as a Federal Law Enforcement Officer for 4 years in East Orange, New Jersey and previously for two years in Sea Gate, New York.

Kuuchi was the third of four children and the only son. He played soccer daily and was raised as a Catholic, having served as an altar boy. Kuuchi loved to make people laugh and had a strong desire to serve others, especially the youth of the community and veterans.

Kuuchi started his career with the Sea Gate Police Department before serving in East Orange, New Jersey. He was named “Officer of the Year” at the Millennium Celebration of Law Enforcement in Sea Gate. Kuuchi respected everyone and always encouraged his fellow colleagues. He talked with troubled youth to help and inspire them.

Kuuchi met his future wife, Amay, through her cousin. After many phone conversations, they got together and fell in love. They married and went on to have five children together as a blended family: Rachel, Raven, Rexford and Ransford, and Agnes. They loved being together, dancing, cooking, and going to the movies. Kuuchi was Amay’s best friend. He was responsible, a good father and loving husband. He served as a role model for his children.

Corporal Raymond Kuuchi of the United States Department of Veterans Affairs Police Services is survived by his loving wife, Amay, children, Rachel, Raven, Rexford, Ransford and Agnes, and many cherished family members. 

The Tunnel to Towers Foundation has provided the Kuushi family with a mortgage-free home through the Fallen First Responder Home Program.