Driver is found guilty on 2 charges

The truck driver who was accused of hitting and killing Colorado State Patrol Trooper Cody Donahue in 2016 was convicted of careless driving, passing resulting in death as well as failure to stay in a lane.

A third charge for careless driving was leveled against driver Noe Gamez-Ruiz, but he was not found guilty.

On Nov. 25, 2016, Gamez Ruiz was driving his truck on Interstate 25 near Castle Rock when he struck Donahue. His partner, CSP Trooper Matthew Normandin called for help, though Donahue was killed instantly upon impact.

“Throughout this process I recognized that regardless of the outcome, this was going to be hard,” said Chief of the Colorado State Patrol Col. Matthew C. Packard in a statement.

“I have gained a whole new respect for what a victim goes through. This has been an incredibly challenging time for all of our Patrol members, but particularly hard for the Donahue family. To them, I say ‘We miss him too.' ”

The fatal incident led to the “Move Over for Cody Act” which states that drivers who do not change lanes when passing law enforcement vehicles, state highway workers or tow-truck drivers can face up to 18 months in jail and pay a $5,000 fine.

Prior to the verdict, the case had two separate mistrials because of the prosecution’s failure to disclose information to the defense.

Sentencing is set for July 30. Gamez-Ruiz could face a maximum of a year in jail, but he is eligible for probation, according to the 18th Judicial District.

“Our Colorado State Troopers are unshaken in their commitment to keep our State’s roadways safe. And, we need your help,” Packard said in the statement.

“Pay attention when you are behind the wheel and take action when you see anyone on the side of the road — a Trooper, a firefighter, a tow truck driver, or another driver like you — when you see anyone — slow down, move over.

“This simple action, not only is the law in Colorado, it saves lives.”