Body of off-duty Sacramento police officer, 30, found near Jessup University in Rocklin

An off-duty 30-year-old Sacramento police officer was found dead Thursday near Jessup University, which led Rocklin police officers to close the school, police said.

The Sacramento Police Department identified the man as Officer Daniel Bartlett, who leaves behind a wife and young child.

“Daniel was a kind individual, friend, and officer who exemplified the values of this organization,” said Chief Kathy Lester in a statement. “His passing was unexpected and an extremely tragic loss to our department, community, and family. My sincere and deepest condolences go out to the Bartlett family, friends, and teammates during this difficult time.”

Rocklin police officers received a call just after 6 a.m. for an unresponsive man lying near the intersection of University Avenue and Larkspur Drive. Firefighters with the Rocklin Fire Department pronounced him dead on the scene, police said.

Bartlett had been an officer for the department for four years and was assigned to patrol the agency’s south districts.

“Daniel will always be remembered for his dedication, service, and commitment to the Sacramento Police Department,” police said in the statement.

Police closed University Avenue between Sunset Boulevard and Larkspur Drive as they investigated his death.

This story was originally published May 9, 2024 at 10:02 AM.