Officer Down

Trooper Bobby Gene Demuth, Jr.
North Carolina Highway Patrol
End of Watch: Saturday, September 8, 2012
Age: 42
Tour: 12 years

Trooper Gene Demuth was struck and killed by a vehicle on U.S. 64 near Spring Hope in Nash County, while attempting to deploy spike strips during a pursuit at approximately 7:45 am.

The pursuit started when officers from the Raleigh Police Department attempted to stop the vehicle. The driver, who was wanted on multiple charges, including two counts of kidnapping, immediately fled at a high speed. Trooper Demuth was struck by the subject's vehicle as he attempted to deploy the spike strips. The man continued to flee but was taken into custody a short distance away after he crashed into a guard rail.

The 40 year-old suspect was admitted at Nash General Hospital with non life-threatening injuries. Charges are pending.

Trooper Demuth had served with the North Carolina Highway Patrol for 12 years and was assigned to the Rocky Mount, Troop C District 1 Highway Patrol Office. He served his country as a United States Marine from 1988 to 1992. He began his law enforcement career in 1994 as a deputy with the Wilson County Sheriff's Office until moving over to the Edgecombe County Sheriff's Office. Before joining the patrol he was an officer with the North Carolina Division of Motor Vehicles Enforcement Section. Trooper Demuth is survived by his wife, son, mother, sister, brother, niece, and two nephews.

Rest in Peace Bro…We Got The Watch

Day is done, Gone the sun, From the lake, From the hills, From the sky. All is well, Safely rest, God is nigh.