San Jose Officer Killed by Suspected Drunk Driver

San Jose is mourning the tragic death of Community Service Officer Long Pham, who was killed by a suspected drunk driver, Juan Huerta-Palacios, while conducting traffic control on Monterey Road. The incident, which also left another officer, Veronica Baer, severely injured, marks the first line-of-duty death of a community service officer in the department's history. The driver has been charged with vehicular manslaughter and DUI. Pham, who moved from Vietnam as an infant and had been with the department since 2022, was remembered for his dedication and kindness. Mayor Matt Mahan and Police Chief Paul Joseph expressed their condolences and emphasized the impact of this loss on the community and the police department. A full memorial service is being planned to honor Pham's service and sacrifice.