DICKINSON, Texas — Off-duty Lakeview Police Officer Larry Blacksmith was killed Tuesday morning when his motorcycle was struck by another vehicle in Dickinson, Texas, according to the Galveston County Sheriff’s Office.
The crash happened on the feeder road at Gulf Freeway and FM 517.
Officer Blacksmith was in uniform and riding his motorcycle to work when the fatal crash occurred. The Galveston County Sheriff’s Office is investigating the incident.
Preliminary findings indicate that the crash does not appear to be criminal, and no charges have been filed at this time. The investigation remains ongoing.
The Lakeview Police Department announced Blacksmith’s death in a statement, describing him as more than just a dedicated officer.
“Larry was not just a dedicated officer — he was a part of our family, a protector of our community, and a kind soul who brought light to those around him,” the department said.
Lakeview Police Chief Carl Nunn said Blacksmith was “a wonderful human being and a heck of a guy.” He went on to say he was known for rescuing animals in trouble, feeding homeless cats, and he would do anything to help someone.
”He would give you the shirt off his back,” Nunn said.
The loss has deeply affected the law enforcement community. The Galveston County Sheriff’s Office extended condolences to Blacksmith’s family and the entire Lakeview Police Department, noting that “this tragic loss is felt deeply across the law enforcement community.”
“Our department is hurting, and our hearts go out to his loved ones. We kindly ask the community to allow his family time and privacy to grieve this unimaginable loss,” the department stated.
The department expressed gratitude for support from the El Lago and Taylor Lake Village communities, adding that “Officer Blacksmith will never be forgotten.”