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Douglas County Sheriff's Office Remembers Fallen Deputy Ron King 26 Years After Tragic Accident on U.S. Highway 85

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Published on May 21, 2025
Douglas County Sheriff's Office Remembers Fallen Deputy Ron King 26 Years After Tragic Accident on U.S. Highway 85Source: Douglas County Sheriff's Office

It's been 26 years since the Douglas County Sheriff's Office lost Deputy Ron King, a tragedy that forever altered the fabric of their law enforcement community. On the anniversary of his passing, the DCSO paid tribute to Deputy King on social media, remembering the impact of the accident on May 21, 1999, that claimed his life and seriously injured his partner, Deputy Chris Washburn. The social media post from the DCSO reflects on the day when a van turned left in front of the deputies who were on motorcycle patrol along U.S. Highway 85 near Louviers, leading to a crash with irreversible consequences.

According to Douglas County Sheriff's Office, Deputy King's pass away while en route to the hospital following the accident., Deputy Washburn, although severely injured, demonstrated extraordinary resilience. He underwent multiple surgeries and, exhibiting a remarkable recovery, returned to full duty mere months after the incident. The DCSO honors the dedication and sacrifice of Deputy King, emphasizing that his legacy persists within the community and among his fellow officers.

DCSO spoke of Deputy King with reverence, highlighting his roles as not just a colleague but also a friend and mentor. Douglas County Sheriff's Office mentioned, "Deputy King’s legacy lives on in the hearts of everyone at DCSO. He was more than a colleague—he was a friend, a mentor, and a steady presence in the community he proudly served." The remembrance also shed light on his steadfast dedication, spirited nature, and the ultimate sacrifice he made, which has not been forgotten.