NEWMAN — On a quiet stretch of Merced Street, where the air often carries the stillness of a small town, a crowd gathered on Dec. 26. They came with heavy hearts but steadfast spirits to mark a somber milestone: seven years since Corporal Ronil Singh was taken from this community during a routine traffic stop.
While the annual memorial has become a cornerstone of healing for the city of Newman, this year felt deeply personal. It was a day defined not just by the tragedy of the past, but by the living, breathing legacy Singh left behind.
Anamika Singh, Ronil’s widow, stood before the gathered crowd and shared a glimpse into the life they’ve built in the shadow of their loss. Their son, who was only five months old when his father was killed, is now a vibrant seven-year-old in the second grade. To see him is to see a reflection of the father he never truly got to know, yet whose presence is felt in every milestone reached.
Anamika also provided an update on Ronil’s faithful partner, K9 Sammy. Though she is feeling the weight of her years and facing some health challenges, Sammy remains a cherished connection to Ronil, a silent witness to the bravery and dedication he brought to the job every day.
He was more than just a badge.
As the "End of Watch" call crackled through the speakers—a haunting sound that never gets easier to hear—the sky filled with a sea of blue balloons. As I watched them drift upward, I was reminded of the Ronil Singh the world didn't always see on the news.
We often use the word "hero" to describe those in uniform, but for me, Ronil Singh was the literal definition. Years ago, I was trapped in the darkness of an abusive relationship. There was no way out for me and no one could see what I was going through. I felt invisible, but Cpl. Singh saw me one day with a bruise, there was no report made, just a promise. He looked me in the eye and told me he would make sure I got out.
He kept that promise. I will never forget the day the Newman Police Department with other departments broke down my door for other cause and I was brought out to safety. Among the officers who pulled me out of that house was Ronil. He didn’t stop there, either; he continued to check on my children and me until the day we were able to move away.
To many, a hero wears a cape. To me, a hero wore a badge and a kind smile, and he saved my life.
The loss of such an incredible soul remains difficult to process, even seven years later. It is a reminder that the "routine" stops made by our officers are anything but routine. They are acts of service by men and women who have families, dreams, and a profound impact on the lives of strangers.
If you find yourself driving down Merced Street, I encourage you to stop at his memorial. If you see a stray leaf, brush it away. If you have a moment, leave a flower. Or simply stand there in awe of the man he was.
Cpl. Ronil Singh may have been taken from us maliciously, but the love and safety he planted in this community can never be uprooted. He will forever be my real-life hero.
