TRUCKEE (KRON) — A California Highway Patrol officer died late Sunday night after being struck by a car on I-80 near Truckee, CHP officials said.
Officer Nathan Taylor of CHP Gold Run was directing traffic on Saturday on I-80 westbound near when a driver lost control of their SUV and hit him, according to CHP officials.
Taylor, who had been with CHP for almost six years, was helping direct traffic in snowy conditions after an accident.
A Nissan Pathfinder lost control while trying to change lanes. The SUV struck him and sent him flying several feet into the air. He landed facedown in the median.
Taylor was hospitalized in serious condition and later succumbed to his injuries.
CHP Commissioner Joe Farrow remembers Taylor in a Facebook post:
“It is an incredibly sad day for Officer Taylor’s family, the CHP, and the State of California. The loss of an officer protecting our community is truly devastating! I would personally like to thank all of our partners, including the medical staff who fought so hard on behalf of Officer Taylor. We ask for the public’s continued prayers, support, and trust as we go through this incredibly difficult time,”
The driver of the SUV may face a fine after the investigation.
A ceremony for Ofc. Taylor will be held in West Sacramento on Tuesday morning at the CHP Academy, located at 3500 Reed Avenue.
There will be a ceremonial ringing of the memorial bell, and dozens of officers will pay their respects.