U.S. District Court Judge Larry Hicks, appointed by President George W. Bush in 2001, was tragically killed in a car crash outside the federal courthouse on Wednesday.
According to Fox News, the accident occurred at approximately 2:15 p.m. outside the courthouse in downtown Reno. The 80-year-old judge was hit by a car and later died at a local hospital. Officials from the Reno Police Department and the Washoe County Sheriff's Department confirmed the incident.
Judge Hicks began his distinguished legal career in 1968 as a prosecutor within the state of Nevada. Serving the community for more than five decades, he was known for his legal acumen and deep commitment to family and community.
According to authorities, the driver involved in the accident remained at the scene and is cooperating fully with the investigation. Details regarding the cause of the crash have yet to be disclosed.
Hicks' passing has shocked the local legal and civic community. He was rushed to a nearby hospital but unfortunately succumbed to his injuries later that day. The news has elicited an outpouring of grief and remembrance from those who knew him.
Washoe County Sheriff Darin Balaam expressed his condolences in a social media post. He described Hicks as a man who balanced family, work, and self and who was beloved by his family and the broader community.
Balaam emphasized how significant Hicks' contributions were, not only in the courtroom but also as a beloved community member. "Today’s news regarding the Honorable Judge Larry R. Hicks who served Nevada for over 53 years is tragic," Balaam stated.
Hicks’ journey in the field of law was expansive. From starting as a prosecutor to eventually serving as the District Attorney of Washoe County from 1974 through 1978, his career exhibited a strong dedication to justice. In 1978, Hicks transitioned to a private practice, where he continued to make an impact until his judicial appointment in 2001.
"He once stated, ‘My greatest thrill in life is my family,’” Balaam recalled, highlighting Hicks’ deep-rooted family values. "Larry Hicks was a one of a kind man, revered in our community and, most importantly, beloved by his family."
Judge Hicks was a figure known for his love and dedication to both his professional and personal life. His service marks his legacy as a judge and his earlier roles in Nevada's legal framework.
On behalf of his office and his family, Sheriff Balaam extended heartfelt condolences to Hicks’ son Chris, the current District Attorney, and all of Hicks’ family. "Judge Hicks’ legacy will forever be noted in Washoe County," concluded Balaam.
Judge Larry Hicks was known for his fairness and dedication on the bench. His colleagues remember him as someone who treated every case with meticulous care and compassion.
U.S. District Court Judge Larry Hicks, appointed by George W. Bush in 2001, was struck and killed by a car outside the Reno federal courthouse. He began his legal career in 1968, served as Washoe County’s District Attorney, and was a partner in a private practice before his federal judicial appointment. His untimely death has deeply affected the community he served for over five decades, and his legacy is one of dedication, fairness, and love for his family.
