At the 52nd annual Guns and Hoses charity football game, held Jan. 31, first responders came together to honor fallen CDCR Parole Agent Joshua Byrd, who was killed in the line of duty in 2025. Agent Byrd’s family was presented with special memorabilia, as teammates and coworkers paid tribute.
The Fire Dogs took the win (3–0), but the true victory was unity, remembrance, and respect for a life dedicated to service. The game was held at Heart Health Park in Sacramento. Parole Agent Joshua Byrd was tragically killed in the line of duty in 2025. Agent Byrd’s family was presented with special memorabilia and a signed helmet. The annual match pits law enforcement against fire agencies.
“This is a great event on multiple levels, but it hits a little closer to home this year after the loss of Agent Byrd, who played in this exact game two years ago,” said Bryan Bishop, Director, CDCR Division of Adult Parole Operations. “We are out here to honor him today, honor his family and honor his legacy.”
Byrd, who served the department for 11 years as an Officer and a Parole Agent, was shot July 17 while inside the Oakland Parole Office. He was honored by the Governor and first responders across the country.
At the game, law enforcement partners throughout Northern California joined to honor their fallen colleague and teammate. California Medical Facility (CMF) Correctional Officer Will Jacobson, Byrd’s former coworker and teammate, wore Byrd’s jersey in his honor.
“Agent Byrd has been receiving support all over the nation, locally as well as from other law enforcement agencies,” said CMF Warden Sircoya M. Williams before the game. “It makes us remember that people respect that we put our lives on the line.”
One of the longest-running charity events in California law enforcement and fire history, Guns and Hoses brings together local law enforcement, Firefighters, and the community in a spirit of unity, teamwork and friendly competition. Through the charity football game, the event aims to raise vital support for those in need while strengthening the bonds between first responders and the citizens they serve. Since the inaugural game in 1975, Guns and Hoses has raised more than $1.75 million for dozens of local charities.
“The biggest thing about Byrd is he was a great family man, and he treated everyone like they were family,” CMF Correctional Officer Will Jacobson said. “Just about every Officer out here has known someone that lost their life in the line of duty. It really hits different when it happens to someone you know and it makes today even more special.”
“Agent Byrd was a very humble person, a pretty quiet guy, but I’m sure his heart would be filled and warmed to see how many people care about him and how much he is missed,” CMF Warden Sircoya M. Williams said.