Deputy Sheriff Douglas E. Smith, Sherman County Sheriff's Department, Oregon

Deputy Sheriff Douglas E. Smith

Sherman County Sheriff's Department, Oregon

End of Watch Sunday, August 27, 1978

Douglas E. Smith

Deputy Douglas Smith was killed in an automobile accident when his vehicle was struck head-on by another vehicle on Highway 97 between Moro and Biggs Junction. He was responding to reports of a vehicle being driven at a high rate of speed and as he crested a hill near mile marker 12 the vehicle struck his head-on. Both vehicles burst into flames and Deputy Smith and the two occupants of the other vehicle were all killed.

Deputy Smith had served with the agency for 4 years. He was survived by his parents, brothers, and sisters.

Bio

Age 23
Tour 4 years
Badge Not available

Incident Details

Cause Automobile crash

Most Recent Reflection

View all 6 Reflections

It has been just over 37 years ago that my brother was killed. I was out walking with my dog just a mile and a half away from the accident. I remember the sheriff and pastor showing up at the house to tell us that Doug was gone. I remember how empty I felt, angry I was, and how much pain I felt. My best friend, brother, helper and one that I looked up too. Mom and Dad, our brother Steve are all gone now as well. As I sit here writing this reflection I remember all of the good times we had together. I remember how he wanted to go back to school and eventually work with Oregon's troubled youth. Doug had a big heart, of which he got from Diane his mother. Through the years I have retired form the military and spent the last 15 years working for the State of Alaska, Department of Corrections. Throughout my life I have always looked back and reflected on what it would have been like having Doug in my life. I miss him. Oregon lost a great guy on that faithful day. Rest in Peace my brother.

Lieutenant Rex Adam von Borstel
State of Alaska, Department of Corrections

October 2, 2015