Mark Butler Obituary, Death: Navasota police Sgt. Mark Butler dies in crash with wrong-way driver.

Mark Butler Obituary, Death – A tragic incident involving a Navasota police officer unfolded on Wednesday afternoon when a wrong-way driver, fleeing from police in College Station, caused a fatal crash. The officer, identified as Sergeant Mark Butler, aged 34, of the Navasota Police Department, lost his life in this unfortunate event.

The sequence of events began around 3 p.m. on Wednesday, following a report to College Station police about a woman attempting to cash a fraudulent check at a bank drive-thru. When officers arrived at the scene, the suspect fled southbound on SH 6 in a Jeep. Near FM 2154, she exited the highway only to re-enter it, this time driving southbound in the northbound lanes. Due to the inherent danger of the situation, College Station police terminated the pursuit in accordance with their policy.

As the pursuit ended, Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) reports indicate that Sgt. Butler was driving northbound on SH 6 in his marked police vehicle, likely in search of the wrong-way driver. Tragically, the Jeep collided head-on with Sgt. Butler’s vehicle. The wrong-way driver was pronounced dead at the scene, while Sgt. Butler was transported to a hospital, where he later succumbed to his injuries.

The identity of the wrong-way driver remains undisclosed as investigations continue, with Texas DPS taking the lead in probing the details surrounding the crash.

Sgt. Butler had been a part of the Navasota Police Department since June 2021. Before joining the police force, he served in the military, where he also worked with K-9 units. His dedication to public service and community safety was widely recognized by his peers and superiors.

In the wake of his passing, Navasota City Manager Jason Weeks expressed profound sorrow, highlighting Sgt. Butler’s bravery and commitment. “Sergeant Mark Butler was a dedicated public servant who exemplified courage, integrity, and unwavering commitment to the safety and well-being of our community,” Weeks stated. “This is a heartbreaking day for our department and our community. The City of Navasota extends its deepest condolences to Sergeant Butler’s wife, family, friends, and colleagues.”

The Grimes County Sheriff’s Office also paid tribute to Sgt. Butler, acknowledging his sacrifice in preventing further harm to innocent citizens. “His sacrifice without a doubt prevented untold innocent citizens from eminent danger from this reckless driver,” they noted. They also extended their hopes for his peaceful rest under the watch of Saint Michael, the Patron Saint of law enforcement.

In honor of Sgt. Butler’s service and sacrifice, a candlelight vigil has been scheduled to take place at Navasota City Hall near the Frank Hamer Statue at 6 p.m. on Thursday. Details regarding his funeral arrangements will be announced at a later date, as the community prepares to bid farewell to a beloved officer and protector.

This incident has cast a somber mood over the Navasota Police Department and the wider community. Sgt. Butler’s death underscores the risks law enforcement officers face daily in their duty to protect the public. As the investigation proceeds, the focus remains on understanding the full circumstances of the crash and ensuring that justice and appropriate measures follow.

The tragic loss of Sgt. Butler is a reminder of the ultimate sacrifices made by those in uniform, leaving behind a legacy of service, dedication, and heroism that will not be forgotten by his colleagues and the community he served.