Sergeant Willis Hugh Purdy

Sergeant Willis Hugh Purdy | Colorado State Patrol, Colorado
Colorado State Patrol, Colorado
Sergeant Willis Hugh Purdy

Colorado State Patrol, Colorado

End of Watch Saturday, July 31, 1976

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Willis Hugh Purdy

Sergeant Hugh Purdy and Officer Michael Conley, of the Estes Park Police Department, drowned while assisting victims of the Big Thompson Flood.

Sergeant Purdy had been stopping traffic from entering a flooded area when when his vehicle was swept away by flood waters near Drake, Colorado.

Sergeant Purdy had served with the Colorado State Patrol for 26 years.

Bio

  • Age Not available
  • Tour 26 years
  • Badge Not available

Incident Details

  • Cause Drowned

natural disaster

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My wife and I were Camden horses to thrive the night of the big Tomin flood. Our tent was washed away and went tried to drive south back to our home in Boulder. Obviously the roads were all closed. When we heard the story of Officer Purdy that night, we both cried at his bravery. Today we’re learning of the Guadalupe River flood deaths in Texas, and it brought to mind that brave soul the night of the Big Thompson flood. May you rest in peace Officer Purdy.

Dan and Jan Sitarz

July 6, 2025

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