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Eighteen years ago today, CHP Officer Douglas “Scott” Russell made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty to keep others safe. A 22-year veteran of the California Highway Patrol, Officer Russell was struck and killed while deploying spike strips in an attempt to stop a fleeing suspect.
The pursuit began in Rancho Cordova after the suspect intentionally swerved at an oncoming patrol vehicle driven by a Sacramento County Sheriffβs deputy. As the chase approached El Dorado Hills Boulevard on Highway 50, the suspect again deliberately veeredβthis time toward a CHP officer.
Tragically, while Officer Russell knew the suspect was fleeing, he was unaware that the suspect had already attempted to kill two other officers. As Officer Russell deployed the spike strip from the median, the suspect intentionally swerved off the roadway and accelerated into him. The suspect then continued fleeing until a Sacramento County Sheriffβs deputy successfully ended the pursuit using a PIT maneuver.
Today, we honor and remember Officer Russellβs selfless act of bravery and his ultimate sacrifice in the protection of others.