Recipients 2008

Deputy Estes was responding to a 911-hang up call and had his emergency equipment activated while responding to the call.  When crossing the highway, he was struck broadside by a truck. 

The date of Deputy Estes’ collision was February 6, 2007, and Deputy Estes died of his injuries on February 14, 2007.  Deputy Estes had been with the Walla Walla Sheriff’s Office for approximately two years, being commissioned on July 15, 2005. 

Officer Gary Shilley has been employed as an officer with the Puyallup Police Department since July 8, 1991.  In the early morning hours of March 25, 2006, Officer Shilley came upon what appeared to be a disabled vehicle at the South Hill Mall in Puyallup.  Officer Shilley contacted the motorist of the car in an attempt to assist him.  Feeling something wasn’t quite right, Officer Shilley asked the subject for his license and registration.  The subject responded by pulling out a handgun, fired two rounds, one of which hit Officer Shilley in the left cheek and lodged in his neck, narrowly missing his spine.

Even though Officer Shilley was seriously wounded, he was able to notify dispatch of his grave situation and his need for help.  Officer Shilley was also able to give the direction of travel of the suspect vehicle and a description of the suspect to incoming units.  This information greatly aided in the apprehension of the suspect.

Officer Shilley returned to full duty status on June 12, 2007, and was recently appointed as a Canine Patrol Officer, with his new canine partner, Chance.