Waves of grief began circulating across the island this week after news regarding the sudden death of longtime Pastor and Harbor Patrolman Ron Eroen was confirmed.
Authorities say they are still investigating the circumstances surrounding his death, but Eroen died four days after being involved in a scooter accident on New Year’s Eve near the intersection of Metropole and Crescent Avenue.
Sources said Eroen was initially treated at Catalina Island Medical Center but was eventually flown to Harbor General Hospital, where he later succumbed to his injuries.
In addition, The Catalina Islander has confirmed Eroen’s death with his family, speaking to his wife Mary Lou. She said the family was asking for privacy this week but will be ready to speak to the media next week.
City Manager Dave Maistros issued a brief statement from city hall, saying “it is with great sorrow that we share the heartbreaking news that Ron Eroen has passed away.”
Maistros noted in the statement that Eroen’s family was at his side when he passed.
“Ron was a dedicated and respected member of the City of Avalon Harbor Patrol Department. Ron served the City of Avalon and its residents in many ways over the years by first becoming a Firefighter Reserve in 1995 before joining the Harbor Patrol Department in 2003 as a part-time officer. In 2010, Ron became a full-time Harbor Patrol Officer,” said the statement.
Eroen was also the longtime Pastor of the Avalon Community Church and friends say he was involved in many local causes and initiatives.
A makeshift tribute was erected outside the church as soon as the community learned of Eroen’s death.
The Islander has begun reaching out to Eroen’s friends and family members and will present a detailed profile of Eroen’s life and untimely death on Catalina Island in an upcoming issue.
