Austin police mourn death of officer from COVID-19 complications Police said Joe Alvarado was instrumental in the teaching of defensive tactics at the Austin Police Academy for many years. Author: Jeff Bell Updated: 1:05 PM CST January 13, 2021 AUSTIN, Texas — The Austin Police Department (APD) is mourning the death of Officer Joe Alvarado, who died on Tuesday from COVID-19 complications. Police said Alvarado passed away at 8:53 a.m. at South Austin Hospital. In a statement, police said, “He was instrumental in the teaching of defensive tactics at the Austin Police Academy for many years. His passion and expertise were responsible for the safety of many generations of officers.”