BILLINGS — Family and friends are remembering the two men who died after being hit by a Carbon County Sheriff's Office patrol vehicle on Friday, July 15, 2022.
The loss of 52-year-old Darren Shull has shaken those who knew him. Shull and 45-year-old Rockvale resident Jesse Beck both died after being hit by the vehicle.
“When I heard of Darren’s accident, I was at a loss of words. I still struggle to believe it’s real,” said friend of Shull’s, April Wheeler, on Monday. She met Shull four years ago.
“Darren was an icon in our community. He stood out in the crowd, and he was always helping other people,” said Wheeler.
Shull and Beck were hit by the patrol vehicle at around 10:30 p.m. that night.
“When I heard it was a tragic accident, that he was hit by a law enforcement officer, a patrol car, I couldn’t believe it,” said Wheeler.
A Marine veteran, Shull was an avid biker and a member of the riding group Galloping Goose. A 50/50 raffle was held for his family during the Beartooth Rally in Red Lodge over the weekend.
“Those who knew Darren loved Darren. And those who didn’t know Darren should know that he would help anybody, any day of the week,” Wheeler said.
MTN News spoke with a man who witnessed the crash. He requested to remain anonymous and said he saw Shull help Beck, who had pulled his motorcycle to the side of U.S. Highway 212, when the two men were struck.
“He was helping somebody, more than likely a stranger from out of county and out of state. A guy with a great big heart and unfortunately it took his life,” said Wheeler.
The Montana Highway Patrol issued this statement: ”This crash involved a Carbon County deputy driving a vehicle and two pedestrians. Both pedestrians were killed in the crash. This crash continues to be under investigation.”
These statements aren't an answer for Wheeler and the rest of the community.
“I know that all of us want to know how it happened and why. Just for the sheriff to take accountability for what happened and just respond,” said Wheeler.
Beck's brother, Jason Beck, said he was an "old school" biker with a big heart. He also passed on his gratitude to Shull for stopping at the side of the road to help Jesse.
"He didn't have to do that, and he gave his life," Beck said of Shull.
A GoFundMe has been made for the Shulls; click here if you would like to help.
TRENDING NOW
- Shooting in East Glacier; 3 people dead
- 2 dead after being hit by Sheriff's vehicle
- Huestis treats foster kids to shopping spree
- Missing MT woman’s belongings found
- Details of massive crash that killed 6 people
- Wanna buy an island in Flathead Lake?
