Officer Dana E. Paladini and a sheriff’s deputy arrived at the scene of a vehicle accident involving a horse trailer. One animal suffered a broken leg, and the owners asked the officers to shoot the horse. The deputy sheriff fired three shots – one ricocheted off the trailer wall striking Officer Paladini, who died shortly afterward. The 25-year-old patrol officer had been a member of the CHP for only nine months.
Honor Roll
Tributes in honor of Officer Dana E. Paladini
Officer - CHP Retired
Dana, I wish you were still here with us. You were one of my best friends and to lose you so tragically and in such a short time after meeting you was devastating. I’ve thought of you often over the past 48 years and so wish you were here and we could share a beer together. I’ll always remember your smile, sense of humor and laid back bachelor attitude. Rest peacefully my brother. Someday we will be together again.