Fallen Officer transported through Jasper County

On January 21st, Deputies from Sabine County Sheriff's Office were dispatched to the 2200 Block of Telephone Road in Milam in reference to an accidental death.

Upon arrival, Deputies discovered La Porte Chief of Police Douglas Ditrich, had been killed in a tree cutting accident. JP 1 Roger Gay pronounced Ditrich dead and he was transported to Starr Funeral Home.

At around 1pm today, Deputies from Jasper and Sabine County Sheriff's Departments as well as Kirbyville Police stopped traffic in Kirbyville as this fallen officer was escorted through our town.

Ditrich had been with the La Porte Police Department since 1997 and was promoted to Chief last May.

A press release from the City of La Porte said the following;

"The City of La Porte, Texas, is extremely saddened to share the passing of its police chief, Doug Ditrich, following a fatal accident in Milam County on Sunday, January 21.

Chief Ditrich's family was notified and the City respects their need for privacy at this time.

The incident was unrelated to any investigation or law enforcement duties and no foul play was involved. The City is providing counseling assistance for the Police Department and City staff.

As available, memorial service information will be shared.

LPPD Assistant Chiefs Bennie Boles and Scott Pullig will oversee Department operations until further notice."

Our prayers are with the Ditrich family, the people of La Porte, and those who served with him.