Colleagues Mourn Late Margate Office

By Nicol Jenkins
Editor

The Margate Police Department is in mourning over the loss of a beloved officer.
Margate officer Michael Thomas McQuade, 36, was off-duty when he was killed in a motorcycle accident. His motorcycle collided with a SUV June 20 around 11:30 a.m. at Coconut Creek Parkway and Banks Road in Coconut Creek, according to reports.
McQuade was a four and a half year veteran of the Police Department. He served in the Marine Patrol Unit, the Honor Guard and the Special Response Team (SRT). He was also a Field Training Officer, a Firearms Instructor, Department Armorer, and Departments Training Coordinator. 

“He was the guy everybody liked,” said Sergeant Jonathan Shaw of the Margate Police Department. “He was in the Marines for six years so this was the most natural fit for him as a career choice.”

McQuade was off-duty that tragic day and on his way to a luncheon honoring a retired officer when the accident occurred, according to Shaw.
“It was especially tough for all of us because we were having a SWAT luncheon that afternoon. He was on the way to luncheon, and we found out what happened together,” he said. “It was heart wrenching. It was one of the difficult things the whole team has been through.”
The officers and family recently honored McQuade’s memory at his funeral and there is a vigil at the scene of the accident.  
“It’s a solemn time at the police department. Everyone is still in shock,” said Shaw.

The Coconut Creek Police Department is conducting an investigation as to the cause of the crash. He is survived by his wife, Melissa, a Miramar police officer, and his parents, Thomas and Ann.

A motorcycle run will be held in McQuade’s honor July 26 along A1A starting at 8 a.m.
To contribute to the Michael McQuade Fund, send checks to Eastern Financial Florida Credit Union at P.O. Box 829514, Miramar, Fl, 33082.