The NC Board of Transportation has approved a special posthumous recognition for Highway Patrol Trooper Bobby Gene DeMuth, Jr.
The DOT passed a resolution Thursday naming the Red Oak Bridge located on U.S. 64 in Nash County in honor of DeMuth who lost his life in the line of duty on September 8, 2012. DeMuth was assisting in the apprehension of a suspect in a high speed pursuit on U.S. 64 near Spring Hope on that day.
“On September 8, 2012, Trooper Gene Demuth went to work doing what he truly loved: protecting and serving the citizens of this great state, but unfortunately he never made it home to his family,” said Colonel Bill Grey, Commander of the North Carolina State Highway Patrol. “The dedication of the bridge over Red Oak Road on U.S. 64 in Nash County will remind us all of his ultimate sacrifice and honor his legacy.”
Trooper DeMuth began his law enforcement career in 1994 as a deputy with the Wilson County Sheriff’s Office before moving over to the Edgecombe County Sheriff’s Office. He also served as an officer in the Division of Motor Vehicles Enforcement Section, before he joined the Highway Patrol in Nash County.
In total, Trooper DeMuth served the Highway Patrol for 12 years, assigned to the Rocky Mount Troop C District 1 Office. He also served as a United States Marine from 1988 to 1992.
A sign will be erected noting the honor during a bridge dedication ceremony to be held at a future date.
