El Dorado County (Sept 30, 2024) – The El Dorado County community is once again uniting to honor the memory of Deputy Brian Ishmael through an annual blood drive on Wednesday, October 23, from 1:00 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. at the El Dorado County Sheriff’s Office at 200 Industrial Dr, Placerville, CA (off Missouri Flat Road). This blood drive serves not only as a tribute to Deputy Ishmael’s legacy but also as a vital opportunity to support those in need by donating life-saving blood.
To participate, you can schedule an appointment at donors.vitalant.org using blood drive code SMFE332, or call 877-258-4825 and mention the same code. Walk-ins will be welcomed if space allows, but appointments are strongly encouraged to ensure smooth operation.
Deputy Brian Ishmael, an El Dorado County Sheriff’s Deputy, tragically lost his life in the line of duty on October 23, 2019. Responding to a report of theft at an illegal marijuana grow in Somerset, California, he and an off-duty deputy were ambushed. Despite wearing body armor, Ishmael was fatally shot, and his partner was injured. His passing devastated the local community, where he was admired for his unwavering commitment to public service. Having served with the sheriff’s office for four years and previously with the Placerville Police Department, Ishmael was a beloved figure who dedicated his life to protecting others.
In the wake of his death, the community rallied together to remember Ishmael, hosting tributes, memorials, and a funeral that saw an outpouring of support. His sacrifice reignited discussions about the dangers surrounding illegal marijuana operations in California and the need for improved safety measures for law enforcement.
As the blood drive approaches, the message resonates: “Tears cannot save a life, but our blood can.” While grief honors Deputy Ishmael’s memory, donating blood offers tangible hope to those in need. Each donation is a lifeline, a way to carry forward Ishmael’s legacy of service. In giving blood, we turn our mourning into meaningful action, saving lives in the name of a hero who gave everything for his community.
