Frank V. Trejo, a 58-year-old deputy with the Sonoma County Sheriff's Office, tragically lost his life on March 29, 1995, in Santa Rosa, California. Trejo, a dedicated law enforcement officer with 35 years of service, was well-known and respected in the community. On the night of his death, Deputy Trejo was investigating a suspicious vehicle parked at a closed business on Highway 12, west of Santa Rosa.
The vehicle was occupied by a recently paroled inmate from Pelican Bay State Prison, who was also a member of the Aryan Brotherhood, and his female companion. As Deputy Trejo approached the vehicle, the paroled inmate confronted him with a sawed-off shotgun and shot him in the face, killing him instantly. The suspects then fled the scene, taking Deputy Trejo's gun with them.
Following the murder, the suspects forced their way into a nearby house and took a family hostage. The Sonoma County Sheriff's Department quickly responded, setting up a perimeter around the house with patrol deputies and the S.W.A.T. Team. After several hours, both suspects surrendered to the authorities. The shooter was later convicted of first-degree murder and sentenced to death, while his accomplice was convicted of multiple felony offenses and sentenced to 14 years in state prison.
Deputy Trejo's death was a significant loss to the community and the law enforcement fraternity. His funeral was attended by over 2,400 officers and citizens, reflecting the high regard in which he was held. Trejo was posthumously awarded the Gold Medal of Valor for his bravery and sacrifice. His legacy continues to be honored by his colleagues and the community he served so diligently.
