Trooper Ray Lynn Pierson
November 7, 1978

Lynn Pierson joined the Utah Highway Patrol in 1974. He served at the Heber Port of Entry and in field operations in Moab. On November 7, 1978, just two days after transferring to his hometown of Panguitch, he stopped a pickup truck, which unknown to Trooper Pierson, was stolen. As Lynn approached the vehicle, the driver produced a .357 revolver and shot Trooper Pierson, striking him in the heart. Trooper Pierson managed to fire six rounds at the suspect as he sped away. Trooper Pierson died at the scene. The suspect was later apprehended and pleaded guilty to murder. The scene of this homicide occurred on State Road 20 approximately 3 miles west of this location.

Related:

• Fallen Officer Memorials
• Another memorial for Ray is here.