A somber shadow has been cast over the San José community as a result of a tragic incident that left a Community Service Officer (CSO) dead and another seriously injured. The San Jose Police Department is mourning the loss of one of their own following a vehicular incident last Saturday. According to the San José Police Department's press release, two CSOs were struck by a vehicle while they were conducting traffic control for an unrelated collision.

At approximately 9:56 PM, a silver 2022 Dodge Charger failed to observe a flare pattern and collided with a parked police vehicle at Monterey Road and Palm Avenue. This in turn caused the patrol car to hit the two CSOs, who were positioned on the other side. Acting Chief of Police, Paul Joseph, stated via the San José Police Department news, "Our entire Police family is heartbroken by this line of duty loss, and our collective arms are around his family, friends, and teammates during this unimaginable time". He further conveyed his concern for the female CSO still hospitalized with major injuries, wishing her to recover swiftly.

The driver of the Charger, identified as 44-year-old Juan Huerta-Palacios, was apprehended at the scene. He is currently facing charges of gross vehicular manslaughter and felony DUI. After receiving medical attention for an unrelated issue, Huerta-Palacios is expected to be booked into the Santa Clara County Jail. In response to the incident, Mayor Matt Mahan reflected on the dedication of the city's officers, saying through the police department's announcement, “Each day, our officers place themselves in harm's way to fulfill their solemn oath to protect and serve us — they are truly heroes,” and expressed his condolences, honoring Officer Long Pham’s service and sacrifice.

The SJPD Traffic Investigation Unit Detectives are heading the investigation into Traffic Fatality #28, as the incident has been numerically designated. Anyone with information regarding this tragedy is encouraged to contact Detective Bowen at the provided contact details urgently. The public can also submit anonymous tips via the P3TIPS mobile app, call the tip line, or visit the Silicon Valley Crime Stoppers website, potentially eligible for a monetary reward if an arrest is made.