Republican-Appointed Federal Judge Dies After Incident at Courthouse

U.S. District Court Judge Larry Hicks passed away Wednesday afternoon after being struck by a vehicle in Reno, Nevada.

Hicks, aged 80, was appointed by former President George W. Bush and confirmed in 2001, as reported by KRNV-TV.

Reno police responded to a vehicle-pedestrian incident near the federal courthouse in Reno around 2:15 p.m. on Wednesday.

Hicks was transported to a hospital but unfortunately did not survive.

The police stated that the driver involved is cooperating with the ongoing investigation.

According to the Reno Gazette-Journal, impairment does not appear to be a factor in the accident, the police reported.

Hicks previously served as a district attorney for Washoe County. He is also the father of current Washoe County DA Chris Hicks.

The family released a statement through KOLO-TV:

“Today, our community lost an extraordinary man. Judge Larry Hicks was a deeply admired lawyer and judge, a devoted friend, mentor, and a committed servant to the administration of justice,” the statement read.

“To us, he was first and foremost a man who put nothing before family. He was a hero in all manners, a loving husband of nearly 59 years, a doting dad, an adoring Papa, and brother. His loss is beyond comprehension.”

Washoe County Sheriff Darin Balaam also issued a statement published by the Reno Gazette-Journal:

“Today’s news regarding the Honorable Judge Larry R. Hicks who served Nevada for over 53 years is tragic,” the statement said.

“Judge Hicks began his legal career in 1968 as a prosecutor in the Washoe County District Attorney’s Office, ultimately serving as the District Attorney from 1974 through 1978. In 1978, Hicks became a partner in a private practice until his 2001 appointment as a U.S. District Court Judge for the District of Nevada.

“Despite his notable accomplishments, Judge Hicks once stated, ‘My greatest thrill in life is my family.’ His life philosophy was based on a balance of family, work, and self.”

The statement continued:

“Larry Hicks was a one of a kind man, revered in our community and, most importantly, beloved by his family. On behalf of my family and the men and women of the Sheriff’s Office, we extend our deepest condolences to Larry’s son Chris, the current District Attorney, and all of Larry’s family. Judge Hicks’ legacy will forever be noted in Washoe County.”

Reno Police Chief Kathryn Nance also conveyed her condolences, as reported by KOLO:

“On behalf of the men and women of the Reno Police Departments, we extend our heartfelt condolences to the family of Judge Hicks.

“Tragedies like this leave a lasting impact on our lives, particularly when they involve cherished members of our community.”