California is mourning the loss of Officer Matthew Bowen, a dedicated police officer who tragically lost his life in a freak incident on Thursday, July 11, 2024.
Officer Bowen was conducting a routine exercise in Solano County, Northern California when tragedy struck.
Officer Bowen joined the Vacaville Police Department in June 2023 after serving at the Concord Police Department. He leaves behind a wife, two sons, parents, and a brother.
The Vacaville Police Department described him as someone who served with the highest level of dedication and honor, and his loss is deeply felt by the Department, the City, and the community.
Senator Bill Dodd stated, “Officer Bowen devoted his life to keeping our community safe,” highlighting the impact he had on those around him.
City of Vacaville Mayor John Carli added, “Officer Bowen exemplified the best qualities of our community – service before self, honor, duty, and country.”
The tragic incident occurred when Officer Bowen was struck by a driver while conducting a traffic stop on his motorbike. The driver, identified as Serena C.J.
Rodriguez, was suspected to be under the influence of drugs. Despite being rushed to Kaiser Hospital, Officer Bowen’s life could not be saved.
Rodriguez attempted to flee the scene but was detained by bystanders who made a citizen’s arrest after witnessing the horror unfold.
The California Highway Patrol’s Golden Gate division named Rodriguez, 24, from Auburn, as the driver responsible for the fatal crash.
Rodriguez has been sent to Solano County Jail facing charges of homicide and driving under the influence causing injury and/or death.
The community gathered to pay their respects to Officer Bowen in a police procession on Interstate 80, showcasing the deep impact he had on those around him.
