HYATTSVILLE, Md. — The Prince George’s County Police Department and the greater community are mourning the loss of Police Officer First Class Alex Crawford Belcher, who passed away on Oct. 8, 2025, after a courageous medical battle.
Belcher, 32, was a seven-year veteran of the department and served his entire law enforcement career in District I – Hyattsville. Known among his peers for his dedication and leadership, he was most recently assigned to Shift 4, Squad 42, where he was respected as both a colleague and mentor.
A member of Academy Session 139, Belcher joined the force in 2018, fulfilling what he once described as his lifelong goal “to be part of the Prince George’s County Police Department.” His colleagues remember him as a steady presence on patrol and a trusted source of guidance for younger officers. Earlier this year, he was appointed as a Field Training Officer—an acknowledgment of his professionalism and commitment to developing others.
Over the course of his service, Belcher received multiple commendations, including a Unit Citation for his role in the arrest of an armed robbery suspect and a Life Saving Award in 2021. He was named Officer of the Month several times for his exemplary performance and dedication to community safety.
Before joining PGPD, Belcher served as a volunteer firefighter and EMT with the Dover Township Fire Department in Pennsylvania. His sense of duty extended beyond his profession—those who knew him describe him as compassionate, humble, and deeply loyal to his family and friends.
Born in York, Pennsylvania, on Aug. 17, 1993, Belcher graduated from Central York High School in 2012. He began his career in service as a patient transporter and security officer at York Hospital before pursuing law enforcement. Outside of work, he enjoyed spending time with his fiancée, Emily Riser, and had recently discovered a passion for crabbing. Friends recall his humor and smile as constant companions to his work ethic and kindness.
Belcher is survived by his fiancée, Emily; his parents, Kathleen and Thang Phan, and Craig Belcher; his brothers, Adam and Ben; his half-sister, Grace; and his grandparents, Linda and Charlie Poff. He also leaves behind his beloved pets—dogs Arlo and Echo, and cats Harley, Nemo, and Milkshake.
Since the Prince George’s County Police Department announced Belcher’s passing on Sunday, Oct. 12, tributes have poured in from fellow officers, neighboring agencies, and members of the public. The Charles County Sheriff’s Office wrote, “We extend our heartfelt sympathy to his family, friends, and fellow colleagues,” while the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office shared, “Please accept our condolences.”
Hundreds of comments have followed across social media, with many thanking Belcher for his service and expressing support for his family and squadmates. “Officer Belcher will be deeply missed—thank you for your service,” wrote one resident. Another added, “Our thoughts and prayers are with the family and colleagues of POFC Belcher during this difficult time.”
His brother, Adam Belcher, reflected on the outpouring of support, writing, “Alex would be so happy to see so many supportive people and positive words. He was a man everyone looked up to. He was a brother that was always there. Thank you, everyone, and PG County for all the support. Alex would be so proud.”
Belcher’s fiancée’s mother, Tiffany Becker Riser, also shared, “Alex’s greatest prides were Emily and his job. He loved his fellow officers and respected the community. His job was dangerous, and that’s what he loved about it. RIP, Alex—we love and miss you terribly.”
A visitation and funeral service honoring Officer Belcher will be held Thursday, Oct. 16, 2025, at Prince George’s County Fire Department Station 855 – Bunker Hill, located at 3716 Rhode Island Ave., Brentwood, Md. Visitation will take place from 10 a.m. to noon, followed by a funeral service beginning at 12 p.m.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Fraternal Order of Police, Prince George’s County Lodge 89, in honor of POFC Belcher’s service.
The Prince George’s County Police Department has asked the community to keep Belcher’s family, friends, and squadmates in their thoughts and prayers as they grieve the loss of a dedicated public servant who devoted his life to protecting others.
As one commenter wrote, echoing a sentiment shared by many:
“Rest easy, Officer Belcher. We’ve got it from here.”
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