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Jasper County, Texas, is in mourning for Deputy Lesley Jo Wade, who passed away in a motor vehicle accident in Angelina County on December 27, 2024. Off-duty deputy, 24, was fatally struck in the collision; her six-year-old twin children in the vehicle were also injured.
According to KFDM, the accident happened at 9 in the morning on the U.S Highway 69, with the Farm-to-Market Road 1818 intersection. DPS indicated that Deputy Wade was driving her 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee when she hit a 2014 Mack truck that was pulling into the highway.
As per the reports, heavy fog conditions might have contributed to the wreck since the trailer part of the truck was placed right across the southbound carriage. Deputy Wade was rushed to St Luke’s Health – Memorial Hospital in Lufkin, but he succumbed to the injuries.
Community response
Sheriff Mitchel Newman expressed profound sadness over Deputy Wade's passing. Newman was quoted by KFDM stating:
"It is with shattered hearts that I announce the passing of our own Jasper County Deputy Lesley Wade."
He also expressed her commitment towards the people of Jasper County and said that even her absence would be greatly missed by all. The sheriff’s office said that they would stand with her family in this moment of grief.
Sheriff-elect Chuck Havard also shared his condolences on social media, highlighting Deputy Wade's commitment to law enforcement and her positive impact on the community.
“Although I’m not the Sheriff yet, I can tell you she served her community with the utmost level of honor, pride and professionalism. It’s really hard putting into words what she meant to Jasper County and to the law-enforcement profession. She touched many lives in her short career and was respected by everyone she came in contact with. She was genuine and was so passionate about making a positive impact on the world we live in.”
About Deputy Lesley Jo Wade
Deputy Wade began her law enforcement career alongside her husband at Jasper County, initially serving as a bailiff responsible for courthouse security before transitioning to the patrol division. Colleagues and community members remembered her as an outstanding officer who exemplified leadership and professionalism. Jasper County Judge Mark Allen was quoted by KFDM stating:
"Lesley was an outstanding officer and loved law enforcement with all of her heart. She was a true professional and could quote statutes with great accuracy and ease, and literally feared nothing. She led by example and made her mark in the history books of Jasper County as one of our best Sheriff’s Deputies.”
“Please pray for Chris and their family, as well as their fellow law enforcement officers, during this time. Go with God, Lesley. We will miss you, but are thankful you were part of our Jasper County family. You’ll always be our Hero. Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called the children of God.”
Trending
The community has reportedly hosted activities in the form of vigils and memorial services to celebrate her life, especially service and sacrifice.
Given this sad incident, various governors, mayors, council speakers, and other leaders have expressed their support for prayers for Chris Wade and his children. The sheriff’s office has said they will remain supportive of the family and pray for them as they mourn the loss.
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