Holly MatkinCaldwell, TX – Blinn College Police Department (BCPD) Officer Christopher “Chris” Luttrell died in an off-duty motor vehicle crash on Dec. 17.
The 46-year-old officer was driving along Highway 21 near FM 50 in Burleson County when his tire blew out at approximately 9:27 a.m., KBTX reported.
Officer Luttrell overcorrected and swerved into oncoming traffic, at which point he collided with a FedEx delivery van, according to the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS).
The 23-year-old driver of the FedEx van suffered serious injuries as a result of the collision, KBTX reported.
He was rushed to St. Joseph Hospital in Bryan.
Officer Luttrell died of his injuries at the scene.
During his nearly 20 years as a law enforcement officer, the Houston native served the Burleson County Sheriff’s Office, the Caldwell Police Department, and the Houston Campus Police Department, according to his obituary.
He joined BCPD in 2014, “a post that he absolutely loved,” the tribute read.
“Chris never met a stranger, his good nature and open personality enabled him to connect with anyone he came across,” his family noted. “He could make students open up like no one else could – he carried a yoyo and a harmonica to help break the ice and get a conversation started.”
Officer Luttrell was especially proud of his work with the Sexual Assault Resource Center (SARC), where he also taught college freshmen about the importance of consent and the dangers of sexual violence.
“The mission of SARC was very close to his heart and he hoped to make a positive impact on the students he taught,” his obituary read. “In honor of all his contributions, SARC named Chris officer of the year in 2018.”
Officer Luttrell was instrumental in recruiting and training many of his fellow officers.
He also established the Explorer Program at Caldwell High School, and played a large role in creating the Caldwell Police Department’s K9 program.
“Although Chris was an incredibly dedicated to his work, it never felt like work to him because he simply loved serving others. So many people thought of Chris as a friend, father-figure, mentor, teacher, and brother,” his obituary read. “He could be tough on the outside, but he had a soft and caring heart that would shine through his generous actions. He was a willing community servant and a loyal brother to his fellow law enforcement officers.”
Officer Luttrell and his wife, Erin, were married earlier this year.
He also leaves behind his children, Zeke, Grace, Kyleigh, Sandie Lee, Kenner, and Christopher, as well as his father, siblings, nephews, and many friends.
Officer Luttrell will be laid to rest on Dec. 29, according to his obituary.
Our thoughts and prayers are with the family of Blinn College Police Department Officer Christopher “Chris” Luttrell, both blood and blue. Thank you for your service.
Rest easy, hero. We’ll hold the line from here.
