At approximately 10:31am on Thursday, July 11, 2024, Vacaville Police Officer Matthew Bowen was conducting a traffic stop near the intersection of Leisure Town Road and Orange Drive when he was struck from behind by another vehicle. Officer Bowen began receiving medical aid on scene and was transported to a local hospital where, despite all lifesaving efforts, he tragically succumbed to his injuries.

The driver of the vehicle that struck Officer Bowen attempted to flee the scene on foot, however, she was detained by bystanders who witnessed the crash. CHP investigators contacted the driver, 24-year-old Serena C.J. Rodriguez of Auburn, and determined she was driving her vehicle while under the influence of drugs. Rodriguez was taken into custody and subsequently booked into Solano County Jail on charges of homicide and driving under the influence causing injury and/or death.

Officer Bowen had been with the Vacaville Police Department since June 13, 2023, after serving with the Concord Police Department.

“He has served with the highest dedication and honor, and his loss is deeply felt by the Department, the City, and the community,” the Police Department said in a statement.

Officer Matthew Bowen is survived by his wife, two sons, his parents, and brother.

Additional details and funeral information will be provided as available.