California Highway Patrol, California
End of Watch Sunday, May 23, 1976
Add to My HeroesGary Lee Hughes
Officer Gary Hughes was killed when his cruiser was struck from behind by a drunk driver.
He and his partner had just arrested another drunk driver, and he and Officer Hughes were sitting in the back seat of his cruiser, which was still parked on the shoulder. The driver of a wrecker was preparing to tow the suspect's truck. A pickup truck driven by the second drunk driver swerved off the road and crushed the patrol car killing Officer Hughes and seriously injuring his partner, who was standing outside of the vehicle. The force of the impact slammed the patrol car into his partner and the wrecker driver, who died from injuries he received in a hospital a few days later. The drunk driver who was arrested first was slightly injured.
The 27-year-old driver of the pickup truck was charged with felony drunk driving and two counts of manslaughter.
Officer Hughes had been with the California Highway Patrol for 11 years.
Bio
- Age 38
- Tour 11 years
- Badge 3401
Incident Details
- Cause Vehicular assault
- Weapon Automobile; Alcohol involved
- Offender Charged with manslaughter
Most Recent Reflection
View all 27 ReflectionsGod bless you Gary. I worked with you and Lance at Bank of America in Richmond back in the 70’s. I remember my last words to you were have a great weekend, and I will see you on Monday. I always think of you when I see your name on the freeway sign when I’m going to Vallejo. You were a great human being rest in peace.
Saundra Burton
Friend
May 10, 2023
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