ACR 109: Officer Gonzalo Carrasco, Jr., Memorial Highway.

WHEREAS, On January 31, 2023, Officer Gonzalo Carrasco Jr., of the Selma Police Department passed away while serving in the line of duty, marking the first time a police officer has sacrificed their life in the department’s 130-year history, and his untimely death in the pursuit of the highest ideals of public safety has brought immense sorrow and loss to the people of the local community and throughout the State of California; and

WHEREAS, Born on June 24, 1998, to Veronica and Gonzalo, Sr., Officer Gonzalo Carrasco, Jr., began pursuing his dream of a career in law enforcement as a police explorer for his hometown of Reedley before serving as a police volunteer for the Selma Police Department for two years, and, while he waited for a paid position to open on the police force, he joined his family as a farmworker; and

WHEREAS, Having graduated from the police academy, Officer Gonzalo Carrasco, Jr., was sworn into the Selma Police Department in 2021, and during his time with the Department, he gained a sterling reputation as an upbeat, enthusiastic, and friendly individual who devoted his time and energy to the perilous duties of law enforcement; and

WHEREAS, We pause to honor Officer Gonzalo Carrasco, Jr., who made the ultimate sacrifice while performing his sworn duty, and pay tribute to him, a fallen hero, by recalling his devotion, celebrating his life, and honoring his service. Officer Gonzalo Carrasco, Jr., was known and loved for his laughter and loyalty, he leaves many to mourn his passing and celebrate his legacy, including his mother, Veronica; his father, Gonzalo, Sr.; his sisters, Alma and Paola; his brother, Christopher; his son, Maximus; and his extended family members, his dear friends, the Selma Police Department, and a grateful public; now, therefore, be it

Resolved by the Assembly of the State of California, the Senate thereof concurring, That the Legislature hereby designates the portion of State Highway Route 43 in the City of Selma, from East Mountain View Avenue, at postmile 7.340, to the junction of State Highway Route 99, at postmile 9.308, as the Officer Gonzalo Carrasco Jr., Memorial Highway; and be it further

Resolved, That the Department of Transportation is hereby requested to determine the cost of appropriate signs, consistent with the signing requirements for the state highway system, showing this special designation and, upon receiving donations from nonstate sources covering this cost, to erect those plaques and markers; and be it further

Resolved, That the Chief Clerk of the Assembly transmit copies of this resolution to the Director of Transportation and to the author for appropriate distribution.