Friona Police Department, Texas
End of Watch Monday, April 14, 2003
Add to My HeroesJose Arturo "Joe" Herrera
Sergeant Joe Herrera was killed when his patrol car was intentionally rammed by a vehicle that was being chased by other officers.
Sergeant Herrera was off duty doing paperwork at the police station when he heard radio traffic of a chase coming towards Friona. He immediately got into his patrol car and headed towards the pursuit.
As he neared the pursuit, he pulled over onto the side of County Road N and activated his emergency lights. As the fleeing pickup truck approached from the opposite direction, the suspect swerved onto the side of the road and struck Sergeant Herrera's patrol car in the front corner and driver's side door, killing Sergeant Herrera instantly. The driver of the vehicle was seriously injured and put under police custody at a local hospital.
The suspect was convicted of capital murder and sentenced to life in prison.
Sergeant Herrera had served with the Friona Police Department for five years. He was survived by his wife, 10-year-old son, three daughters (ages two months, 4 years, and 11 years), parents, sister, and brother.
Bio
- Age 31
- Tour 5 years
- Badge 104
Incident Details
- Cause Vehicular assault
- Incident Date Sunday, April 13, 2003
- Weapon Automobile
- Offender Sentenced to life
Most Recent Reflection
View all 213 ReflectionsHey Arturo saw ur sister's post today on fb for Police Officer's week, brought back memories of our elementary and Jr high school days. Dude the good old days. I came across this, by googling ur name. Yea I became interested in what happened. Ur a true hero to everyone, not because of the final outcome of the day, but because I have read all the comments on this post. Dude ur kids LOVE YOU SO MUCH!!! I read every detailed comment ur children left u through the yrs as they grew and learned life. I know u have been with them every step of the way!!! They have done great from the readings and I know u would have been proud!! I read the comments from ur peers and just people who were honored to have met you!!! Missed, never forgotten, proud and blessed to have known u!!
Patrick "old friend"
May 16, 2023
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