A California Highway Patrol motorcycle officer was killed in an on-duty crash on Highway 99 near Tipton on Monday evening.
Officer Brian Liles, 44, of Visalia, was pronounced dead at the scene following the collision at approximately 5:00 p.m., according to the CHI. Details regarding the number of vehicles involved and the circumstances of the crash were not immediately available.
Emergency responders arrived quickly at the scene, and the CHP confirmed that there were no additional injuries reported. All southbound lanes of Highway 99 were closed for investigation and cleanup, with the CHP conducting an extensive inquiry into the incident.
Liles had served with the CHP for over 16 years, following his graduation from the CHP Academy in 2010. His assignments included San Jose, Hayward, Fresno, and most recently, the Visalia region in 2019.
“The CHP extends its deepest condolences to Officer Liles’ family and all who served alongside him,” the agency stated. “His dedication and commitment to protecting the people of California will not be forgotten.”
In a statement, Governor Gavin Newsom announced flags at the State Capitol would be flown at half-staff in Liles’ honor, noting his service was a “heartbreaking loss” for the state and the CHP. Liles is the first CHP officer killed in the line of duty since 2020, when Officer Andy Ornelas was fatally injured in a separate incident.