LYNDEN, WA–The Lynden Police Department’s Interim Chief who was struck by a vehicle Tuesday has died from his injuries.
On Tuesday, Nov. 5, at approximately 5:20 p.m. Michael F. Knapp, 79, of Lynden, was crossing Fourth Street when he was struck by a Maroon 1988 Chevrolet truck traveling Northbound.
The vehicle was traveling with headlights off, according to the Washington State Patrol.
Knapp was airlifted to Harborview Medical Center in critical condition but later succumbed to his injuries.
The driver, 19-year-old Brant J. Hilverda, also of Lynden, was not injured and was released at the scene. The vehicle was impounded.
In a statement to the community, Knapp’s family asked for private time to cherish his memories and life.
His family released this statement:
“Michael was a family man that touched many and will be sorely missed. He offered so much to his family, friends and community. There will be a celebration of his life at a future date.
It is not known if drugs or alcohol were involved. The crash is still under investigation.
how sad.
THIS IS TRAGIC NEWS MAKES ME SAD KNOWING THE COMMUNITY AND HIS FAMILY LOST THERE LOVED ONE AND A HIGH RANKING OFFICER OF THE LAW WHO WOULD HAVE GIVEN HIS LIFE TO SAVE ANY ONE OF US IF SOMEONE THREATENED OUR SAFETY OR LIVES IN ANY WAY! I DIDN’T HAVE THE CHANCE TO MEET OFFICER KNAPP BUT MY SORROW GOES OUT FOR ALL THAT KNEW HIM AND A HEARTFELT THANK YOU TO ALL THOSE WHO SERVE AND PROTECT US CITIZENS IN THIS COUNTRY BECAUSE WITHOUT YOU WE WOULD NOT HAVE THE FREEDOM OR PEACE OR FEEL SAFE AS WE DO TODAY… I FEEL MUCH SAFER KNOWING YOU OFFICER’S ARE OUT THERE TO PROTECT THE INNOCENT WHILE KEEPING THE PEACE! OUR FAMILY THANK GOD WE HAVE YOU POLICE OFFICERS IN OUR LIVES! THANK YOU ALL. MAY GOD BE WITH YOU AND YOUR FAMLIES DURING THESE DIFFICULT TIMES LOSING OFFICER AND LOVED ONE MICHAEL KNAPP. R.I.P. SIR.
S.C.BOND AND FAMILY
Says the driver was uninjured and released at the scene, i would like to think that means that drugs and alcohol were NOT involved.