October 5, 2025 – On Saturday, Governor Newsom issued a statement on death of Chowchilla Police Officer Ray Barrantes.
Related: Madera CHP Reports Chowchilla Police Officer Killed in On-Duty Traffic Crash
“Jennifer and I are saddened by the loss of Officer Barrantes. Our hearts go out to his family, friends and colleagues during this difficult time. Officer Barrantes served his community with dedication and his sacrifice will always be remembered.”
On October 3, Officer Barrantes was involved in an on-duty traffic collision on State Route 152 at Road 13 in Madera County. Despite lifesaving efforts by first responders, Officer Barrantes succumbed to injuries he sustained in the crash while on scene.
Officer Barrantes, 37, had 15 years of dedicated law enforcement service, including one year with the Chowchilla Police Department.
He is survived by his mother and three children.
In honor of Officer Barrantes, flags at the State Capitol and Capitol Annex Swing Space will be flown at half-staff.
This is the biggest reform of the California mental health system in decades and will finally equip partners to deliver the results all Californians need and deserve. Treatment centers will prioritize mental health and substance use support in the community like never before. Now, it’s time to roll up our sleeves and begin implementing this critical reform – working closely with city and county leaders to ensure we see results.
Governor Gavin Newsom
Source: Office of the Governor
Chowchilla Police Officer Barrantes End of Watch: October 3, 2025
City of Chowchilla Police Department:
October 5, 2025 – Chowchilla Police Department released the following statement and updated the identity of the officer 
involved as Officer Barrantes.
It is with the deepest of sadness that the Chowchilla Police Department announces the loss of one of our own officers. Late Friday evening, one of our officers was involved in an on-duty traffic collision. Despite the swift and courageous efforts of first responders, our officer succumbed to the injuries he sustained in the crash while on scene.
The circumstances surrounding the collision are currently under investigation by the California Highway Patrol, in coordination with the Chowchilla Police Department. Additional details will be released as they become available.
We are holding the officer’s family and friends in our thoughts and prayers during this incredibly difficult time. This officer was a dedicated and respected member of our department and had many years of dedicated law enforcement service. We will not be releasing the officers name so that the family can have their time to grieve peacefully.
Our department is extremely grateful of the immediate support we received from the Madera County Sheriff’s Office, Chowchilla Fire Department and the California Highway Patrol.
Chief of Police Jeff Palmer stated, “moments of tragedy like this are devastating to our department and especially the family of this amazing officer. It is going to take time for our department to heal from this tragic loss.”
Source: Chowchilla Police Department
