Related: CHP Motorcycle Officer Brian Liles of Visalia Killed On-Duty in Tulare County Crash

September 29, 2026 - SACRAMENTO – Governor Gavin Newsom issued the following statement regarding the death of California Highway Patrol Officer Brian Liles:

“Officer Brian Liles dedicated his life to serving our communities, and his passing is a heartbreaking loss for the California Highway Patrol and the entire state of California. Jennifer and I are deeply saddened by his tragic loss and we extend our heartfelt condolences to his family, friends, and CHP colleagues. He will be remembered for his dedication to serving and protecting the people of California.”

On September 28, at approximately 5:11 p.m., CHP Motorcycle Officer Liles was involved in an on-duty traffic collision on State Route 99 just north of State Route 190 in Tipton. Officer Liles sustained critical injuries and, despite lifesaving efforts, succumbed to them at the scene.

Officer Liles, 44, was a more-than-16-year veteran of the CHP. He was assigned to the San Jose Area in 2010 after graduating from the CHP Academy. He also served the communities of Hayward and Fresno before transferring to the Visalia Area office in 2019.  

He is survived by his wife, two children, his parents and two sisters.

In honor of Officer Liles, flags at the State Capitol and Capitol Annex Swing Space will be flown at half-staff. This is the first line-of-duty loss for the CHP since 2020.  

Source: Office of the Governor