March 18, 2026 – El Monte Police Department officials announce the passing of Senior Detective Armando “Mando” Santa Anna.

On Tuesday, the department mourned the loss of one of our own.

Senior Detective Armando “Mando” Santa Anna passed away on Sunday, March 15, 2026, from complications related to a surgery stemming from a work-related injury.

Mando proudly served the City of El Monte for 24 years, working assignments in Patrol, as a School Resource Officer, and as a Senior Detective. He was respected by his colleagues, dedicated to the community he served, and carried himself with professionalism throughout his career.

Before joining law enforcement, Mando played baseball at the collegiate and professional level and later stayed connected to the sport as a talent scout.

He leaves behind his wife Claudia, his son Tyus, and his daughter Julianni.

Please keep the Santa Anna family and our El Monte Police Department family in your thoughts and prayers.

Rest easy, Mando. We’ve got it from here.

Source & photo: El Monte Police Department