KENNEWICK, Wash. - Washington State Patrol (WSP) has launched a statewide effort to remove impaired, distracted and aggressive drivers from the road.

This initiative, known as "One More Stop," honors fallen Trooper Christopher Gadd. Trooper Christopher Gadd tragically lost his life on March 2, 2024. He was struck by an impaired driver while conducting DUI stops.

Trooper Carlos Mata, a colleague of Gadd, remembered his friend and their shared experiences. "We worked together. We had breaks together. We responded, different incidents, together. I saw I saw him, you know, go from a pre academy cadet to mature into, into a trooper," said Mata.

Mata shared that Gadd had planned to meet with colleagues during his break for a meal. Tragically, Gadd never made it to that break.

Gadd's mission is now being carried forward by Mata and law enforcement across the state. "He died protecting our citizens. It motivates us. And the entire state patrol due to honor him by removing impaired drivers and removing, people that are endangering our roadways and our communities," said Mata.

From September 26 through the 28, law enforcement conducted emphasis patrols across Washington, including District Three in the southeast part of the state.

WSP reported a relatively mild weekend. "We are happy to report there was there was not a single fatality collision. We ended up arresting four DUI drivers, contacted a total of 40 aggressive drivers, and we also observed 16 distracted drivers," said Trooper Daniel Mosqueda with WSP.

The state patrol hopes for more weekends like late September to ensure community safety and to honor Trooper Gadd's sacrifice.

Troopers emphasized the importance of removing impaired drivers from the road. They believe every impaired driver taken off the road can save a life.

Washington State Patrol honors fallen trooper with road safety effort | Fox 11 Tri Cities Fox 41 Yakima