Deputy U.S. Marshal Peter Purdy Hillman

Deputy U.S. Marshal Peter Purdy Hillman

United States Department of Justice - United States Marshals Service, U.S. Government

End of Watch Thursday, June 8, 2000

Peter Purdy Hillman

Deputy Marshal Hillman was killed when the prisoner transport van he was riding in was struck by a tractor trailer that crossed the median of Highway 65 in Bakersfield, California, after its driver fell asleep at the wheel.

Deputy Marshal Hillman and another deputy marshal were transporting three federal prisoners when the incident occurred. Deputy Marshal Hillman, all three prisoners, and a fourth person were killed. The other deputy marshal was injured in the accident.

Deputy Marshal Hillman had served with the United States Marshals Service for 14 years. He is survived by his father and two sisters.

Bio

Age 47
Tour 14 years
Badge Not available

Incident Details

Cause Automobile crash
Location California

Most Recent Reflection

View all 11 Reflections

My Dear Peter,
You lit up a room with your laughter and had such a zest for life. It does not seem that 17 years have passed. My heart hurts for what could have been in your future. You never shrank from a dare from your other deputies and I thank you for that. As I drove down HWY 168 today and saw the green memorial sign with your name on it (without the Purdy), tears came to my eyes. I try not to go by that sign in Clovis because it makes me miss you too much. 93 minutes my friend 1 week before you and Mike took that awful drive will be a precious memory only known by the two of us. Keep watch with St. Michael in Heaven over your fellow LEO's. Please no more EOW too soon. Love you and miss you.

Sharon
Special friend

July 27, 2017