(Sacramento) Assembly Concurrent Resolution 41, which would designate a portion of State Highway Route 405 in Los Angeles County as the “CHP Officer Philip Dennis Ortiz Memorial Highway,” passed the Assembly on June 7th with bipartisan support.

On June 22, 2010 California Highway Patrol Officer Ortiz pulled a vehicle over for a carpool violation.  While approaching the vehicle, another car driving along the shoulder struck Officer Ortiz and his motorcycle.  Sadly, two weeks after the accident Officer Ortiz passed away at the Ronald Reagan UCLA Medical Center.

“It is my honor to carry a resolution memorializing the unparalleled service of Officer Ortiz who, in the course of his work upholding public safety for the sake of the people of California, lost his life in July 2010,” noted Assemblymember Holly Mitchell (AD47-Los Angeles), in whose district the patrolman was on duty when tragedy struck. “He will be remembered for outstanding professionalism, dedication and courage.  Henceforth a portion of Route 405 in Los Angeles, one of the most traveled thoroughfares in the world, will bear the name of Officer Ortiz in testament to his profound sacrifice.”

He had served in both Central and West Los Angeles.

Officer Ortiz is survived by his widow, sister, mother and stepfather.

ACR 41 will now be permanently recorded and enrolled with the Secretary of State’s Office. Signage identifying the section of state highway named in honor of the fallen Highway Patrol officer will be posted at a future date.