The Washington State community continues to mourn the loss of Trooper Christopher Gadd, receiving closure through justice as the verdict in the trial of Raul Benitez-Santana is passed. Benitez-Santana, whose reckless actions claimed the life of Trooper Gadd on March 2, 2024, was found guilty of vehicular homicide and vehicular assault while under the influence, according to a statement from Chief John R. Batiste of the Washington State Patrol.
Driving over 100 miles per hour, Benitez-Santana struck the trooper's vehicle, and despite all efforts, Trooper Gadd was pronounced dead at the scene; this brought upon charges that culminated in a jury's unanimous decision—a decision that resonates with the commitment of a man who dedicated his life to making the highways safer, day in and day out, Chief Batiste characterized the late Trooper Gadd's duty to make 'one more stop' on each of his service days to protect the community.
The legal proceedings may have concluded, but the memory of Christopher Gadd lives on in the hearts of his former colleagues and loved ones. Chief Batiste emphasized, "We will never forget Trooper Chris Gadd."
