Police Officer Ronnie Ray Lerma, Garland Police Department, Texas

Police Officer Ronnie Ray Lerma

Garland Police Department, Texas

End of Watch Monday, September 21, 1998

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Ronnie Ray Lerma

Police Officer Ronny Lerma was killed after being struck by a van during a traffic stop on the southbound lanes of Interstate 635 at Centerville Road at 10:50 a.m.

As Officer Lerma was reaching over his motorcycle to get out his ticket book, the van pulled into the median and struck him, throwing him down the highway. The van also struck the vehicle that Officer Lerma had pulled over, pushing it into oncoming traffic and killing the driver. The driver of the van was injured in the accident and admitted to the hospital.

The driver pleaded guilty to criminally negligent homicide and was sentenced to five years of probation and a fine of $5000.

Officer Lerma had served with the Garland Police Department for 11 years and previously served with the Dallas County Sheriff's Office. He is survived by his wife and two children.

Bio

Age 39
Tour 11 years
Badge 174

Incident Details

Cause Struck by vehicle

traffic stop

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Most Recent Reflection

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Officer Lerma,
On today, the 26th anniversary of your death I would just like to say thank you for your service and sacrifice for the citizens of Garland and all of north Texas, It has been a privilege to not only know but work alongside your wife, Gena , JoGail and I both extend our love and prayers to you on this difficult day. Gone but never forgotten, thank you officer Lerma Rest in Peace

Jared & JoGail Fosse
Kaufman ISD & Kemp ISD

September 21, 2024