A Marin County Sheriff's Deputy was killed in a car accident Thursday morning in rural west Marin County, according to California Highway Patrol.
The incident happened just after midnight when officer received a call about a crash on Highway 1 just north of Point Reyes Station. The car collided with a tree on the right side of the road.
When fire crews arrived, they worked to extract Deputy Ryan Zirkle, 24, from the car. He sustained serious injuries and an air ambulance was then called to transport Zirkle to a local trauma center.
Despite life-saving efforts, Zirkle died at Petaluma Valley Hospital succumbing to those injuries. The 24-year-old was a member of the Marin County Sheriff's Office for two and a half years.
There is an ongoing investigation into the crash, but officials say preliminary investigation has revealed that, "the deputy was responding to a 911 call when he lost control of his vehicle as he entered a left curve in the roadway. The vehicle traveled off the right side of the roadway and the driver side collided with a tree."
Governor Brown released a statement announcing that Capital flags will be flown at half-staff in honor of the fallen deputy.:
“Anne and I join all Californians in mourning the loss of Deputy Zirkle and we extend our deep condolences to his family and friends.”
Deputy Zirkle, 24, died today following a single-vehicle collision near Point Reyes Station in Marin County while responding to a call.
Deputy Zirkle joined the Marin County Sheriff’s Office two and a half years ago. He is survived by his parents, fiancée and two older brothers.