The Boston Police Department and the city’s law enforcement community are mourning the loss of Detective Bruce W. Higgins Jr., who passed away on Sunday, November 2, 2025, following a private and courageous battle with melanoma.
A 22-year veteran of the force, Detective Higgins was known for his unwavering commitment to justice, mentorship, and community service. He joined the department on October 20, 2003, as part of Academy Class #40-03, and his exceptional dedication quickly distinguished him among his peers.
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In 2012, his professionalism and perseverance earned him promotion to Detective, serving in District C-11 (Dorchester) and later with the Youth Violence Strike Force (Gang Unit). Colleagues recall him as a steady presence — respected, disciplined, and deeply humane in his approach to policing.
That same year, his heroism and commitment were recognized with the Trooper George L. Hanna Memorial Award, Massachusetts’ highest honor for law enforcement officers.
Beyond his badge, Bruce’s leadership extended to the basketball court — first as a standout athlete at Catholic Memorial High School (Class of 1993) and Bridgewater State University (Class of 1997), where he tallied an impressive 1,727 career points in 106 games. His love for the sport led him back to Catholic Memorial as a coach and mentor, shaping the lives of young athletes through both discipline and compassion.
Friends and family describe him as a man of quiet strength, humility, and generosity, whose devotion to his wife Lori and their children Madelyn and Ryan was the cornerstone of his life.
“Detective Higgins exemplified what it means to serve with integrity,” the Boston Police Detectives Benevolent Society said in a statement. “He was a teammate in every sense — resilient, decent, and selfless. His legacy will live on in those he mentored and protected.”
Funeral arrangements are expected to be announced in the coming days. The department plans to honor Detective Higgins’ service with a full police tribute, celebrating a life that embodied courage both on and off duty.