A Motorist Struck and Killed a Washington State Patrol Trooper Early This Morning

Trooper Christopher M. Gadd, 27, tragically lost his life this morning after a vehicle struck him while he was conducting patrols for impaired drivers on I-5. The incident occurred at 3 a. m. on the southbound side near 136th Street North in Marysville.

Gadd, a dedicated father and husband, leaves behind a wife and a two-year-old daughter. A 32-year-old Lynnwood man has been arrested for vehicular homicide in connection with the incident. This marks the 33rd line-of-duty death for the Washington State Patrol, highlighting the dangers faced by law enforcement officers. The agency released a statement mourning Gadd's loss and reaffirming its commitment to public safety. A heavy law enforcement presence remains at the scene, and all southbound lanes of I-5 are closed while the investigation continues.

Additional details will be provided at a press conference later today.