29-year-old WA trooper killed in Tacoma identified
29-year-old WA trooper killed in Tacoma identified
A Washington State Patrol trooper was killed on Friday night in Tacoma while helping motorists involved in a crash on SR-509. On Saturday, WSP released a statement with more information about Trooper Tara-Marysa Guting and her service in Washington.
TACOMA, Wash. - A Washington State Patrol trooper was killed on Friday night in Tacoma while helping motorists involved in a crash on SR-509. Governor Bob Ferguson honored the late trooper during a press conference on Saturday.
"We are extending our thoughts and prayers to her family, to those who knew her and loved her, and extending our deepest appreciation to her many, many years of service in our state," Ferguson said.
On Saturday, WSP released a statement with more information about Trooper Tara-Marysa Guting and her service in Washington. They also confirmed the driver who struck Guting stayed on scene and that no arrests have been made at this time. However, the investigation remains ongoing into the weekend, according to the agency.
What they're saying:
"She answered her final call Friday night, marking the 34th time in WSP's 105-year history that the agency lost one of its own in the line of duty," read the statement, in part.
WSP Director of Public Affairs Chris Loftis spoke about the trooper's legacy with the agency over the weekend.
"She had spent eight years in the Army National Guard before she came to us. So for a 29-year-old to have the better part of two years of the State Patrol, and eight years with the National Guard, just says all you need to know about her. She was a person that, service, was the currency of her life and impact," Loftis said.
Washington State Patrol Trooper Tara-Marysa Guting (Source: WSP)
The 29-year-old began her WSP career as a trooper cadet back in Jan. 2024, following eight years of service with the Army National Guard. She has served District 1 in Tacoma.
Trooper Guting was originally from Honolulu, Hawaii and married her husband Timothy in 2019.
"Our hearts and our thoughts are with all of you and with the family and friends of Trooper Guting," said a representative with the Washington State Department of Transportation.
WA Emergency Management offered condolences. "Holding all our state patrol partners in our hearts and sending love to Trooper Guting's family and loved ones."
Puyallup Police also honored the life and service of the trooper, saying the department was deeply saddened by the loss on Friday.
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