A California Highway Patrol motorcycle officer died recently when he was struck while on a traffic stop in Lake Elsinore.
The officer, a sergeant, was a 27-year-veteran of the CHP who previously had patrolled the Santa Ana and Baldwin Park areas.
The fatal incident occurred when the sergeant stopped the driver of a Chrysler on the shoulder of southbound Interstate 15. A gray Toyota Corolla ran into the sergeant, the motorcycle and the Chrysler, according to the CHP.
He was transported to Inland Valley Medical Center in Wildomar and died from major injuries.
The driver of the Toyota, a 36-year-old man, was arrested on multiple charges, including driving under the influence, the CHP said. The Riverside County District Attorney’s Office could add charges.
The Toyota driver suffered only minor injuries, and the four occupants sitting in the Chrysler weren’t hurt.
Gov. Gavin Newson released a statement of condolences to the sergeant’s wife and two daughters, and the CHP’s commissioner said on Twitter that the officer was “a great leader, valued member of the CHP family, & a dedicated public servant who sacrificed his life serving the people of Calif.”
Law enforcement officers from around the area and community paid respect as the man’s body was transported to the coroner’s office from the hospital. Police cars, motorcycles and fire engines from several jurisdictions accompanied the hearse, and residents lined the streets to watch the procession.
The man’s heartbroken wife and family have lost both emotional and financial support with the sergeant’s death. When they are ready, a consultation with an attorney can help them figure out their options moving forward.