Jeffrey's story

In the morning hours of October 28, 2001, my brother, San Jose Police Officer Jeffrey Fontana was gunned down and killed in the line of duty as he patrolled the streets of Almaden Valley. This year marks the eighth anniversary of his end-of-watch.

Born and raised in Woodside, California, Jeff grew up good student, active in sports and after school activities. A leader and mentor by nature, Jeff later became a peer counselor at Woodside Elementary, a referee for AYSO Soccer, an umpire for Alpine Little League, and the Catholic Schools Baseball League.

After graduating from high school, Jeff attended Foothill Community College and then San Jose State University where he studied Administration of Justice. He graduated with honors, earning the Daniel Lomio Scholarship Award in 1999, given annually to the student who displays fine performance. Jeff put himself through school by working in the accounting department for the San Francisco 49ers and volunteered at the San Jose Police Department’s sub-station at Oakridge in pursuit of his dream to become a member of law enforcement.

His hard work paid off. Admitted to the San Jose Police Academy in 2001, Jeff excelled, graduating fourth in his class later that year, earning both his badge and a job with the San Jose Police department. He hoped to return to San Jose State to earn his Masters in Administration of Justice, and aspired to become a detective in five years with the ultimate goal of becoming a police chief.

A firm believer that “you do not have to be the best, but you have to give your best,” Jeff inspired others by setting a positive example. Now, the example is ours to set.

My family helped create the Jeffrey Fontana Memorial Scholarship Fund (JFMSF) at San Jose State in the fall of 2001, which awards scholarships to San Jose State University students majoring in Administration of Justice, we host the Justice for Jeffrey Candlelight Vigil annually to remember our fallen hero, and we've committed ourselves to seeking justice in his honor.

Jeff lived and died in the name of justice and after almost eight years, we're hopeful that this will be the year justice is served. We appreciate your support as his case moves forward.