Trooper Joseph Edward Gearty

Trooper Joseph Edward Gearty

New Hampshire State Police, New Hampshire

End of Watch Thursday, November 30, 1989

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Joseph Edward Gearty

Trooper Joseph Gearty and Trooper Gary Parker were killed when their patrol car was crushed by a load of wood that had fallen from a tractor-trailer on Route 25 near the Wentworth/Warren town line.

Trooper Gearty and Trooper Parker were transporting a prisoner when the tractor-trailer lost the load of wood that fell onto the patrol car. The prisoner was also killed in the accident. Trooper Gearty succumbed to his injuries the following day.

The driver of the tractor-trailer was charged with vehicular manslaughter but acquitted at trial.

Trooper Gearty had served with the New Hampshire State Police for five years. He was survived by his wife and 6-month-old son.

Bio

  • Age 28
  • Tour 8 years
  • Badge 624

Incident Details

  • Cause Automobile crash
  • Incident Date Wednesday, November 29, 1989

routine driving, transport

Most Recent Reflection

View all 21 Reflections

Trooper Gearty, it has been 34 years since you were taken from us and I marched with hundreds of other brothers and sisters in the processions for you and Gary. I wish it had been my last.

New England law enforcement has continued to thrive, learn and become safer due to the traditions and sacrifices you, your family, and many others have made for us. Thank you for you

Chief (Ret) Steven Marshall
Georges Mills, NH

November 30, 2023

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