A Riverside County sheriff’s deputy has died after suffering major injuries during an on-duty traffic crash on Friday. Deputy Brett Harris, assigned to the Hemet Sheriff’s Station, was responding to a call for service around 2:15 a.m. when the two-vehicle crash happened at the intersection of Esplanade Avenue and State Street.
According to authorities, Harris was trapped in the wreckage and a second deputy was injured trying to save him. After paramedics arrived, Harris was taken to an area hospital in critical condition while the second deputy was hospitalized with non-life-threatening injuries.
The driver of the second vehicle involved in the crash was also taken to the hospital with unknown injuries. Officials later confirmed that Harris had suffered a catastrophic brain injury.
Despite his injuries, Harris had a final act of Service Above Self. It was his wish to donate his organs so that others may live, according to a statement released by the Riverside County Sheriff’s Department. The Harris family is working with the hospital to ensure his wishes are honored.
Harris is survived by his wife, siblings, and parents. The department has requested the public to keep Harris’s family and colleagues in their prayers as they navigate this difficult time.
Funeral arrangements for Harris have not yet been released.
