A death of an officer in the line of duty is always a tragedy. When that death could have been prevented, it is doubly so.
Late last week, Officer Bryce Hanes was killed in an auto collision shortly after leaving the West Valley Detention Center in his cruiser. He was a family man and a devoted Mormon who did not engage in smoking, drinking, or cursing. He is survived by his wife and his three children. The children all were under the age of 12.
The driver of the other vehicle was allegedly driving while under the influence and ran a red light, causing the accident. The other vehicle, a Dodge Charger, sped through the traffic light and t-boned the officer’s vehicle. This caused the officer to spin out of control and hit a traffic light. The officer was taken to the hospital where he later succumbed to his injuries.
The other driver was not badly injured, but was treated for minor injuries before being arrested for suspected drunken driving charges which included vehicular manslaughter and felony DUI causing death or serious injury.
Officer Hanes is remembered as an exemplary officer who had no complaints against him. He was a veteran police officer who had served 12 years on the force. Governor Jerry Brown made a statement indicating that the flag at the State Capitol will be flown at half mast in the officer’s honor.
If you or someone you know has been accused of DUI, it is important to retain an attorney well acquainted with DUI defense. Our attorneys specialize in the field of DUI defense. Contact our office today.
