Special Agent Laura Schwartzenberger, 43, was killed in the line of duty in Miami, Florida, while attempting to serve a court-ordered federal search warrant for a violent crimes against children investigation. Laura’s colleague, Special Agent Daniel Alfin, was also killed during the incident, and three other agents were wounded.
“The FBI Family is devastated by this immense loss. We have found strength and gratitude in the amazing volume of condolences, kindness, and support from our law enforcement and community partners, as well as the general public. I am proud and humbled by those who generously offered to assist the FBI family and Laura’s family and loved ones here in Colorado. We remain unwavering in our commitment in helping the families through these difficult days. While we mourn the loss of Laura and Dan, we will never forget their sacrifice. They were ordinary people who were willing to do extraordinary things in pursuit of making the world a better place.”—SAC Michael Schneider
Laura was a native of Pueblo and a 1996 graduate of Pueblo South High School, where she was an accomplished diver. She attended Colorado State University and competed with the Rams dive team for one year. She completed her Bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice at Northeastern University in 2000, and later earned a Master’s Degree in International Studies from the University of Denver. Laura was a 15-year veteran of the FBI, initially assigned to FBI Albuquerque Division in 2005. She transferred to Miami in 2010 and committed her time there investigating crimes against children. She is survived by her husband, who is also from Pueblo, and two children.
During Laura’s memorial service in Miami on Saturday, February 6, FBI Director Christopher Wray commented, “She died the way that she lived—serving her community and keeping kids safe.”
