A park’s play area is named for the LAPD officer who was shot to death during a February raid in the area. It is hoped to rename the entire park after him.

By Jean-Paul Renaud, Los Angeles Times Staff Writer 1:39 PM PDT, July 26, 2008

Several hundred police police officers, San Fernando Valley residents and dignitaries gathered this morning at West Valley Park in Reseda to rename the children’s play area in honor slain SWAT Officer Randal D. Simmons, who was killed in the line of duty and has been hailed as hero for his police work and community service.

Councilman Dennis Zine, who unveiled a plaque as the fallen officer’s wife and children looked on, is behind a movement to rename the entire park in honor of Simmons, who was shot to death during a SWAT raid in February at a Winnetka house. “He loved kids, he always loved children, he was a SWAT guy with a huge heart,” Zine said. “This was a perfect connection.” The plaque describes Simmons as a “leading light to his friends and family. He will be sorely missed by all.” Besides his police work, Simmons volunteered on the streets of inner-city neighborhoods where he ministered to children on weekends as part of a church group he founded called Glory Kids Ministries, which steers children away from gangs and toward Christianity. “It was just a way to show continuing respect for Randy and his unique part in helping kids,” Zine said. “That’s why the park was a perfect location.” Zine said he will introduce a motion Tuesday at the Los Angeles City Council to rename the park. jp.renaud@latimes.com Watch the video by clicking the link below abc7 News Video