Suspect in the killing of a Utah officer with a tractor-trailer that tried to run over an officer 15 years ago

By Joanna Putman
Police1

SANTAQUIN, Utah – The Utah officer killed When he was rammed by a truck driver fleeing a traffic stop, he was identified as Sgt. Bill Hooser of the Santaquin Police Department, KUTV reported.

Sergeant. According to the report, Hooser was killed May 5 when Michael Aaron Jayne, who was driving a stolen semi-truck, struck him during a traffic stop. The incident occurred when Hooser and a Utah Highway Patrol trooper were investigating a report of a person in the back of the tractor-trailer.

“Bill began his law enforcement career as a volunteer; It was a decision he made. He wanted it and it’s something he loved,” said Michael Hooser, Sgt. Hooser’s brother, during an emotional conference. He described Sgt. Hooser’s dedication to his job and his profound impact on the community.

The law enforcement community and family expressed deep sadness and support for Hooser’s family as they mourn the “senseless loss” of a husband, father and grandfather who died “doing the job he loved.” .

“He was a first-class officer. It will be difficult to replace him,” Santaquin Police Chief Rodney Hurst said.

According to the report, Jayne fled the scene and eventually stole another semi-truck and a pickup truck before being captured following a high-speed chase and accident in Vernal.

The incident is currently under investigation, with several locations still being investigated by Utah police.

Jayne has a history of similar crimes, including a conviction for attempted first-degree assault when he tried to run over an Oregon State Police trooper in 2009.

Jayne was also charged with attempted aggravated murder in connection with the 2009 incident, but he was not convicted, KUTV reports.