CHP deaths hike holiday concerns

Four state patrol officers killed in June has the California Highway Patrol concerned that busy holiday traffic could lead to more deaths.

"It's summertime," said CHP Public Information Officer John Waggoner. "That means more motorists on the roadway and more patrol officers."

The CHP is still reeling from the deaths of its officers, including Barstow patrolman Justin McGrory, who was killed Sunday when a motorist swerved off the road and struck him while he was making a traffic stop.

McGrory leaves behind three children and his expectant wife.

The same day, Templeton CHP Officer Brett Oswald was standing by with an abandoned vehicle when he was struck and killed by a motorist who crossed over the double-yellow lines.

On June 9, Los Angeles Officer Philip Ortiz was struck during a traffic stop on Interstate 405 by a motorist who attempted to pass another vehicle on the right lane shoulder of the freeway.

He was taken off life support June 22, Waggoner said.

Another officer was killed in a pursuit on June 11, and one was seriously injured yesterday when a young woman, distracted while driving, entered into a center divide, striking the officer while he was clearing debris.

"The last four officers killed never should have happened," Waggoner said.

Waggoner said two of the drivers involved in the deaths have been arrested, but that it is the loss of these officers' lives that should serve as a reminder to the public to be cautious when approaching emergency incidences on the highway.

"It's the law," Waggoner said. "You have to pay attention."

In 2007, the Move Over, Slow Down law went into effect in California. It requires a person who approaches a stationary emergency vehicle that is displaying emergency lights to move over, if possible, or slow to a reasonable and safe speed.

The law also applies to tow trucks that are displaying flashing amber warning lights,

Waggoner cautions motorists driving during the Fourth of July holiday to pay better attention to their surroundings and not allow distractions to become a hazard to others on the roadway.

The CHP will hold a maximum enforcement period over the holiday weekend, which puts all available officers on the road from 6 p.m. Friday to midnight on Monday.

During the time, motorists are asked to plan ahead to give plenty of time to reach their destination.

If the holiday is to include alcohol, designate a driver, the CHP said.

"Do the smart thing," Waggoner said. "Don't get behind the wheel of a car."