California Highway Patrol, California
End of Watch Thursday, November 15, 1990
Add to My HeroesJames Christopher O'Connor
Officer James O'Connor was killed when his motorcycle was struck head on by another vehicle.
Officer O'Connor and three fellow officers were returning from a motorcycle training session in Santa Maria. Officer O'Connor was riding in the left rear position of a box formation with the other officers on California 154 outside Santa Ynez when a car veered into the path of the motorcyclists. Three officers managed to swerve, but Officer O'Connor was struck head-on and thrown 60 feet, his helmet knocked loose by the impact. He was transported to Santa Ynez Valley Hospital where he died from his injuries.
The 78-year-old driver of the car was not cited in the incident.
Officer O'Connor had served with the California Highway Patrol for 8 years and was assigned to Ventura. He was survived by his wife, who was also a California Highway Patrol Officer, and three stepdaughters.
Bio
- Age 34
- Tour 8 years
- Badge 10404
Incident Details
- Cause Motorcycle crash
Most Recent Reflection
View all 15 ReflectionsThinking of you as we drive your memorial highway. Our hearts go out to your surviving family, both blood and blue! A hero remembered never dies!
Gail Smith
Peace Officer Memorial Group
December 29, 2020
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