Officer Dana Everett Paladini, California Highway Patrol, California

Officer Dana Everett Paladini

California Highway Patrol, California

End of Watch Tuesday, July 4, 1972

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Dana Everett Paladini

Officer Dana Paladini was killed when he was accidentally struck by a bullet that ricocheted off of a trailer.

He and a local sheriff's deputy stopped to assist at an accident involving a horse trailer. One of the horses was badly injured, and the owner asked the officers to shoot it. The deputy fired three rounds, one of which ricocheted off of the trailer and struck Officer Paladini.

He was transported to the St. Francis hospital, where he succumbed to his wounds.

Officer Paladini was a United States Navy veteran and had served with the California Highway Patrol for nine months. He was survived by his mother.

Bio

Age 25
Tour 9 months
Badge 7839

Incident Details

Cause Gunfire (Inadvertent)

accident scene

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Dana it’s been 53 years since that terrible day. Bright sunny day and our Beloved Patrol lost a bright, dedicated young Patrolman. You will always be in my thoughts and you are missed. May God watch over your family and may God bless you.

State Traffic Officer 7185
California Highway Patrol & US Marine

July 4, 2025