ELK GROVE, CA (MPG) - January marks a meaningful and emotional reminder about the consequences of impaired driving.

Four years ago, Elk Grove Police Officer Ty Lenehan was tragically killed by a wrong-way impaired driver on Highway 99. His loss deeply impacted the Police Department, his family and the Elk Grove community, and it continues to reinforce why driving sober is a shared responsibility.

This month, Elk Grove Police Department officers and staff will proudly wear a DUI Awareness patch or lapel pin created in partnership with Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) California to honor Officer Lenehan and all victims of impaired driving.

Pictured is the highway dedication sign in honor of Elk Grove Police Officer Ty Lenehan who was tragically killed by a wrong-way impaired driver on Highway 99 on Jan. 21, 2022. Photo courtesy of City of Elk Grove

The design serves as a tribute to Ty’s life and dedication to public safety, and as a powerful visual reminder that impaired driving destroys lives.

As we remember Officer Lenehan and reflect on the lasting effects his loss had on our city, we ask every driver to make the choice that saves lives: Do not drive impaired. Plan ahead. Use a rideshare. Call a friend. Stay where you are if you need to.

Let’s honor Ty’s legacy by protecting one another on the road and ensuring #281 is never forgotten.

Learn more about Officer Lenehan and our fallen heroes at the Police Department’s remembrance page: elkgrove.gov/fallenheros.