Jessie Perez Obituary, Death News: Rookie Texas deputy dies after being hit by passing vehicle debris.

Jessie Perez Obituary, Death News – A Dawson County Sheriff’s deputy tragically lost his life after being struck by debris from a passing commercial vehicle while performing a traffic stop, according to a report by KCBD. The incident, which occurred on April 21, has left his department and several surrounding communities in mourning.

Deputy Jessie Perez, 42, was conducting a routine traffic stop when he was fatally injured. The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) reported that debris from a commercial vehicle passing the scene struck Perez during the stop. Emergency personnel quickly transported him to a nearby hospital, but despite their efforts, he later died from his injuries.

Although Perez had only served with the Dawson County Sheriff’s Office for eight months, his contributions to public service extended far beyond his role as a deputy. He was a long-standing and active figure in his community, dedicating himself to multiple roles aimed at serving and protecting others.

In addition to his work with the sheriff’s department, Perez served as a city councilmember for the town of O’Donnell. His involvement in local government reflected a strong desire to improve his community. He was also an active firefighter with the O’Donnell Volunteer Fire Department and an emergency medical technician (EMT) with Lynn County EMS. Over the years, he also worked with other emergency medical services, consistently offering his time and skills to those in need.

In response to the tragedy, officials and organizations from across the region expressed their sorrow and paid tribute to Perez’s life and legacy. The City of O’Donnell acknowledged his deep commitment to their community, stating, “Jessie served our council with a passion to make [the city] better… You will be greatly missed.”

Similarly, the O’Donnell Volunteer Fire Department released an emotional message, describing the significant loss felt by all who knew him: “A great void is left in many hearts… Our hearts and prayers are with Jessie’s family.” The Lynn County Healthcare System also shared their condolences, stating, “His legacy will live on in the hearts of those he helped and in the spirit of service he embodied.”

Perez officially joined the Dawson County Sheriff’s Office in August 2024, receiving his badge just eight months before the fatal incident. Despite his short tenure with the department, his reputation for kindness, reliability, and a strong sense of duty left a lasting impression on those he worked with.

According to the DPS, traffic stops are among the most dangerous duties that law enforcement officers regularly carry out. Spokesperson Steven Blanco emphasized this reality, explaining, “Traffic stops are one of the most dangerous things an officer can do in law enforcement, whether that’s with the sheriff’s office, police department, state trooper — that’s why we have laws for move over laws.”

Texas law, like many others across the country, requires drivers to either move over a lane or significantly slow down when approaching stopped emergency vehicles, including police cars, ambulances, and tow trucks. These “Move Over” laws are designed to protect first responders and others working on the roadside, but tragic incidents like Perez’s death are reminders that risks remain high.

At this time, the crash that led to Perez’s death is still under investigation by the Texas Highway Patrol. Authorities have not yet released further details about the commercial vehicle involved or whether any charges will be filed in connection to the accident.

As the investigation continues, the focus across Dawson County and surrounding areas remains on honoring Perez’s memory and supporting his family. Tributes continue to pour in from fellow first responders, civic leaders, and community members, all of whom are mourning the loss of a man who dedicated his life to serving others in countless ways.

Those who knew Perez remember him as a compassionate, humble individual who never hesitated to step up when his community needed him. Whether he was responding to emergencies, guiding civic decisions on the city council, or simply lending a hand to neighbors in need, Perez was known for his genuine desire to make a positive impact.

His death marks a profound loss for the entire region. While his badge as a deputy may have been recent, his lifetime of service is what defines his legacy. As many across Texas reflect on his contributions and sacrifice, his story also serves as a powerful reminder of the daily dangers faced by law enforcement officers and first responders — and the importance of protecting those who protect others.

In the days ahead, Dawson County and its surrounding communities will continue to remember and honor Deputy Jessie Perez, not just for the way he died, but for how he lived — with courage, compassion, and a commitment to service that touched countless lives.