Raymond “Ray Ray” Hambel Death- Lancaster Police Department Mourns The Passing of a Beloved Officer Who Passed Away

The Lancaster Police Department is mourning the unexpected passing of Officer Raymond “Ray Ray” Hambel #474, a respected and beloved member of the department who dedicated more than 25 years of his life to serving the Lancaster community.

Officer Hambel passed away unexpectedly on August 9, 2026, at the age of 51, leaving behind family, friends, colleagues, and countless members of the community who knew him through his years of service.

Ray began his career with the Lancaster Police Department on September 17, 2001. Over the following decades, he became one of the department’s senior members and a familiar face to the people he served. For his fellow officers, he was much more than a coworker. He was a trusted friend, a dependable colleague, and a cherished member of the Lancaster Police Department family.

Throughout his distinguished career, Officer Hambel served as a member of the Lancaster Police Department Honor Guard, representing the department with dignity and pride. He also spent many years providing artist security during the Lancaster Festival, an assignment that held special meaning for him.

Ray took great pride in welcoming visiting artists to Lancaster and introducing them to the community he had spent so many years serving. His warmth, enthusiasm, and genuine personality helped make those interactions memorable.

Those who knew Ray will especially remember his humor and larger-than-life personality. He had an ability to make people laugh and was often described as the life of the party. His presence could brighten a room, and his personality left a lasting impression on the people fortunate enough to know him.

Away from his police duties, Ray was a husband, father, and devoted family man. While his professional legacy is deeply connected to his service to Lancaster, his greatest impact was undoubtedly felt by those closest to him.

For more than two decades, Officer Raymond Hambel served the City of Lancaster and its residents with dedication. His service, friendship, humor, and the memories he created will remain an enduring part of the department and the community.

As colleagues and loved ones grieve, thoughts and condolences are extended to Ray’s family and everyone affected by his passing.

Rest easy, Ray Ray. We will take it from here.

Funeral arrangements will be announced when they become available.