U.S. District Court Judge Larry Hicks, aged 80, tragically died after being struck by a vehicle near the federal courthouse in Reno, Nevada.
According to Western Journal, the incident occurred on a Wednesday afternoon, and the driver involved is cooperating with police investigations.
U.S. District Court Judge Larry Hicks passed away following a vehicle-pedestrian accident in Reno, Nevada. The tragic event took place near the federal courthouse around 2:15 p.m. on Wednesday afternoon. Reno police swiftly responded to the scene of the incident.
Judge Hicks was transported to a nearby hospital where, despite efforts, he later succumbed to his injuries. The driver of the vehicle is reported to be cooperating fully with police investigations. Authorities have indicated that impairment does not appear to factor in the crash.
Judge Hicks was appointed to the federal bench by former President George W. Bush in 2001. Before his federal appointment, he served as the Washoe County District Attorney, demonstrating a long-standing commitment to public service.
Hicks began his legal career in 1968 and served as the Washoe County District Attorney from 1974 to 1978. Following his tenure as district attorney, he entered private practice, where he became a partner until his appointment in federal court. His dedication to the legal profession spanned over five decades.
Judge Hicks is survived by his son, Chris Hicks, the current Washoe County District Attorney. Hicks was also a devoted family man, having been married for nearly 59 years, and was a father and grandfather, roles he cherished deeply.
Statements of condolences poured in from local officials and family members. His family released a heartfelt statement expressing their grief and admiration for Judge Hicks’ contributions to both his profession and his family.
Today, our community lost an extraordinary man. Judge Larry Hicks was a deeply admired lawyer and judge, a devoted friend, mentor, and a committed servant to the administration of justice. To us, he was first and foremost a man who put nothing before family. He was a hero in all manners, a loving husband of nearly 59 years, a doting dad, an adoring Papa, and brother. His loss is beyond comprehension.
Washoe County Sheriff Darin Balaam shared his condolences, recognizing Hicks' impact on the community and his lasting legacy:
Today’s news regarding the Honorable Judge Larry R. Hicks who served Nevada for over 53 years is tragic. Larry Hicks was a one-of-a-kind man, revered in our community and, most importantly, beloved by his family. On behalf of my family and the men and women of the Sheriff’s Office, we extend our deepest condolences to Larry’s son Chris, the current District Attorney, and all of Larry’s family. Judge Hicks’ legacy will forever be noted in Washoe County.
Reno Police Chief Kathryn Nance also expressed her condolences on behalf of her department. “On the behalf of the men and women of the Reno Police Departments, we extend our heartfelt condolences to the family of Judge Hicks. Tragedies like this leave a lasting impact on our lives, particularly when they involve cherished members of our community.”
The death of U.S. District Court Judge Larry Hicks marks a significant loss for the Reno community and the legal profession. His extensive career and dedication to justice have left an indelible mark on those who knew him. Hicks' contributions, both in public service and in his personal life, will be remembered and honored by many.
His family's grief is shared by the community, which mourns the loss of a respected and beloved figure. As investigations continue, the community rallies around his family, offering support and condolences during this difficult time.