Officer William P. Sniffen, California Highway Patrol, California

Officer William P. Sniffen

California Highway Patrol, California

End of Watch Thursday, April 5, 1973

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William P. Sniffen

Officer William Sniffen was killed in a motorcycle crash while pursuing a speeding motorist on the Nimitz Freeway at 8:30 p.m.

The vehicle he was pursuing rear-ended a stalled car and burst into flames. Officer Sniffen was unable to stop and slid underneath the burning vehicle.

The subject he was pursuing was arrested for felony drunk driving and felony manslaughter. He pleaded guilty and was sentenced to 45 days in jail and three years of probation.

Officer Sniffen was a United States Air Force veteran and had served with the California Highway Patrol for seven years. He was survived by his wife, son, and daughter.

Bio

Age 31
Tour 7 years
Badge 4464
Military Veteran

Incident Details

Cause Vehicle pursuit
Weapon Automobile
Offender Not available

Impaired Driver, motor officer, motorcycle crash, vehicle pursuit

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Most Recent Reflection

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I drove past the William Sniffen memorial sign on the Nimitz Freeway, and was reminded of working briefly with Bill in early 1972. He was a great guy, and a pleasure to be around. After all of these years I remember him fondly.
Thomas Moore 6643. I left the CHP in mid 72 for the Contra Costa Sheriff’s office

Thomas Moore, Commander, Ret
Contra Costa Country Sheriff

October 25, 2024