DETROIT – A 9-year-old Detroit boy who was "Chief for a Day" in January has died nearly a year after being diagnosed with leukemia.
Jayvon Felton's one-day gig was coordinated by police Capt. Darwin Roche and the Children's Hospital Foundation.
Detroit Police Chief James Craig said Jayvon's trip to police headquarters "reminds us ... how important every precious moment is."
Wearing a blue S.W.A.T. uniform, Jayvon arrived by helicopter and was greeted by classmates from Roberto Clemente Academy, police dogs and mascots that included the Detroit Tigers' Paws.
Jayvon smiled as Craig administered the oath of office. He had always wanted to be a Detroit police officer.
He died Monday.
Full statement from Detroit Police Department on Jayvon's passing:
The Detroit Police Department and The City of Detroit mourn the loss of one of their favorite son's. Chief for the day Jayvon Felton, the nine year old boy who smiled his way into our hearts last month, lost his battle with cancer today. It is with heavy hearts and tear-filled eyes that we say goodbye to this young hero taken from us too soon.
It was obvious that day how special Jayvon was. It was not just his courage that was noticeable; it was his charming smile and his caring personality. The way he looked at everything with this wide eye wonderment. In the short time that we knew Jayvon, he touched everyone in the Department leaving a lasting impression that will not be forgotten. He will be missed by many, his family, his classmates, and his DPD family.
We can only pray that when our time comes, we have touched as many lives as Jayvon. To his mother Amanda, we say, thank you for sharing your marvelous son with us. Know that the world is a better place because he was in it. Our deepest thoughts and prayers go out to you and your family during this challenging time.