Abbarno resolution honors late Chehalis WSP Trooper Justin Schaffer

The state House of Representatives unanimously approved a resolution Monday honoring the service and sacrifice of a Washington State Patrol (WSP) trooper from Chehalis, who died in the line of duty exactly one year ago, on March 24, 2020.

Trooper Justin R. Schaffer, 28, was killed while laying down spike strips on Interstate 5 near Chehalis in an attempt to stop a high-speed chase.

Rep. Peter Abbarno, R-Centralia, authored and introduced House Resolution 4618, which was co-sponsored by his seatmate, 20th District Rep. Ed Orcutt, R-Kalama.

The measure resolves “that the House of Representatives join the people of the State of Washington in commending, saluting, and honoring Trooper Justin Schaffer for his exemplary and exceptional service.”

On Wednesday morning, Abbarno attended a monument unveiling in Chehalis by the Washington State Patrol, honoring the life and sacrifice of Trooper Schaffer.

“Trooper Schaffer was deeply involved in our local community. His passing was an enormous loss to our area and to his family left behind,” said Abbarno.

“We need to remember and honor our law enforcement officers who give so much of themselves every day so we can be safe and sound in our homes, our neighborhoods and on the highways,” Abbarno added. “This resolution is a recognition of the enormous impact Trooper Schaffer had on the lives of the people in Lewis County and beyond. Thank you Trooper Schaffer and thank you to all those who serve and protect.”

A copy of the resolution was provided to Schaffer’s family.

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Washington State House Republican Communications
houserepublicans.wa.gov