A Utah police officer, identified as Santaquin Police Sgt. Bill Hooser, tragically lost his life in the line of duty early Sunday morning. The incident occurred when the driver of a semi-truck allegedly fled a traffic stop and struck Sgt. Hooser on a highway.
Sgt. Hooser, 50, was described as a dedicated and top-notch officer by his colleagues and family members during an emotional press conference held on Monday. He is survived by his wife of 29 years, two daughters, and one granddaughter.
According to reports, Sgt. Hooser began his law enforcement career later in life, initially serving as an unpaid volunteer before joining the San Juan County Sheriff's Office in New Mexico. He later returned to his home state of Utah and joined the Santaquin Police Department.
The tragic incident occurred while Sgt. Hooser was assisting a Utah Highway Patrol trooper with a traffic stop on a big rig along Interstate 15. The driver of the semi-truck fled the scene, intentionally striking Sgt. Hooser, his vehicle, and a UHP patrol vehicle. Sgt. Hooser succumbed to his injuries at the scene.
The suspect, identified as 41-year-old Michael Aaron Jayne, fled on foot to a nearby convenience store where he stole another semi-truck. Jayne's trail led through several stolen vehicles before he was apprehended near Vernal, approximately 100 miles from the initial incident location.
The investigation into the tragic event is ongoing as authorities work to piece together the sequence of events leading to the loss of Sgt. Hooser's life. The community has rallied around the family of the fallen officer, offering love and support during this difficult time.
