BAKERSFIELD, Calif. – Senator Melissa Hurtado (D-Bakersfield) issued the following statement regarding the death of Tulare County Sheriff’s Deputy Randy Hoppert:

“I am heartbroken about the sudden, tragic passing of Deputy Hoppert in the line of duty, and I stand with the Central Valley in honoring his service to the people of Tulare Country and the State of California. I send my deepest condolences to Deputy Hoppert’s family, friends and colleagues mourning his tragic and untimely death. His bravery will never be forgotten.”

The Tulare County Sheriff’s office said that Deputy Hoppert was killed while the sheriff’s department attempted to serve an eviction notice in Porterville. He was shot by a suspect with what authorities deemed a “high powered” rifle during an exchange of gun fire. Deputy Hoppert was taken to a nearby hospital where he died from his wounds.

Deputy Hoppert served in the U.S. Navy from 2010 to 2015, and in 2021 was recognized for his bravery for using the training he received with the US Navy to help save a 2-year-old girl’s life.

Deputy Hoppert is survived by his wife Ashley, and their two sons, Austin and Everett, as well as his mother and sister.

Senator Melissa Hurtado is Chair of Senate Budget Subcommittee #4 on State Administration and General Government and currently represents the 16th Senate District in the California Legislature, which includes portions of Fresno, Tulare, Kings and Kern Counties.

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