Multistate “One More Stop” Emphasis Patrol to Honor Fallen WSP Trooper
Multistate “One More Stop” Emphasis Patrol to Honor Fallen WSP Trooper
Olympia, WA — The Washington State Patrol (WSP) and the Washington Traffic Safety Commission (WTSC) announce a multistate emphasis patrol in honor of fallen Trooper Christopher Gadd #927 beginning on Friday, Sept. 26.
Trooper Gadd was killed after being struck by an impaired driver on Interstate 5 just north of Marysville on March 2, 2024. Prior to the tragic incident, Trooper Gadd had messaged to his detachment members he was going to meet up with them for break after “One More Stop.”
After sending the message, Trooper Gadd’s dedication to the citizens of Snohomish County and Washington State was put on display. Trooper Gadd pulled to the shoulder of I-5 just north of his detachment office with the intent of seeking out one more speeding driver, one more potential impaired driver – to make one more contact to prevent a future tragedy. It was then that an impaired driver traveling over 100 mph crashed into the back of Trooper Gadd’s patrol car.
In honor of Trooper Gadd’s dedication and sacrifice that night, WSP and WTSC will host an emphasis patrol titled “One More Stop” from 4:00 p.m. Friday, Sept. 26 to 5:00 a.m. Monday, Sept. 29.
“This emphasis patrol is not just about enforcement, it’s about remembrance. Trooper Christopher Gadd served this community with honor, courage, and an unwavering commitment to keeping others safe,” said WSP Chief John Batiste. “As we take to the streets in his name, we do so with heavy hearts and clear purpose: to carry forward his memory and ensure that his sacrifice is never forgotten.”
“Law enforcement officers work tirelessly to make our roads safer. We can honor them and keep them safe, too, by driving sober and following the speed limit,” said Shelly Baldwin, Director of the Washington Traffic Safety Commission. “High visibility patrols are an important reminder that we each have the power to keep ourselves and others safe on our roads.”
In the spirit of Trooper Gadd’s strong work ethic and dedication, the statewide emphasis will have officers across the state working together, as well as regional participation from agencies in Oregon and Idaho, to conduct those traffic stops in his honor. These patrols reinforce the shared mission of reducing dangerous driving behaviors to save the lives of those traveling on our roadways.