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Killed in the Line Of Duty Oregon Reserve Deputy's Father. Special Episode. The loss of a loved one is always devastating, but when that loss comes in the line of duty, it leaves an enduring impact on families, colleagues, and communities. This is the story of Reserve Deputy Mark Alan Whitehead, who was killed in the line of duty while serving with the Multnomah County Sheriff's Office in Oregon. His father, Jim Whitehead, shares his journey of grief, resilience, and commitment to honoring his son’s legacy. I just received word on 02/25/2025 that Jim Whitehead passed away just a few days before this was released. Follow the Law Enforcement Talk Radio Show and Podcast on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, Newsbreak, Medium and most all social media platforms. You can listen to the interview as a free podcast on the Law Enforcement Talk Radio Show and Podcast website and platforms like Apple Podcasts, Spotify and most major podcast platforms.
The Tragic Night
On February 26, 1993, Reserve Deputy Mark Alan Whitehead and Reserve Sergeant Scott Collins were on patrol when tragedy struck. A drunk driver, traveling at an estimated speed of 105 mph, lost control of his vehicle on I-84 just east of 181st Street. The car went airborne, crossed the center divider, and crashed into their patrol car, shearing off the roof. Both deputies, along with the intoxicated driver, who had a blood alcohol content three times the legal limit, were killed instantly. Read the supporting stories about this and much more from Law Enforcement Talk Radio Show and Podcast in platforms like Medium, Newsbreak and Blogspot.
Mark had served as a Reserve Deputy for just a year and a half, while Scott had dedicated five years to the force. Their deaths marked the first time Reserve Deputies from the Multnomah County Sheriff's Office had been killed in the line of duty. Killed in the Line Of Duty Oregon Reserve Deputy's Father. Special Episode. The interview is available as a free podcast on the Law Enforcement Talk Radio Show and podcast website, also available on platforms like Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and most major podcast outlets.
A Father’s Grief and Mission
Jim Whitehead, Mark’s father, still vividly remembers the moment he received the heartbreaking news. The loss of his son turned his world upside down. Over time, Jim channeled his pain into purpose. Today, he dedicates his time to helping other families who have suffered similar tragedies through his volunteer work with Oregon Concerns Of Police Survivors (C.O.P.S.).
Through this organization, Jim supports families of fallen officers, offering guidance, comfort, and resources to those coping with loss. He understands the deep sorrow that comes with losing a loved one in the line of duty, and he strives to ensure that no family grieves alone. Follow the Law Enforcement Talk Radio Show and podcast on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, Newsbreak, Medium and most all social media platforms.
Honoring Their Sacrifice
In 2014, 21 years after Mark and Scott’s deaths, a roadside memorial was erected along I-84 near the Fairview Parkway exit. This tribute, made possible through the efforts of the Sheriff’s Office, the Collins and Whitehead families, and state legislators, stands as a solemn reminder of their sacrifice. Killed in the Line Of Duty Oregon Reserve Deputy's Father.
Each year during National Police Week, the Multnomah County Sheriff's Office holds a memorial service to honor those killed in the line of duty. With bagpipes, gun salutes, and heartfelt speeches, officers and families gather to remember the fallen, ensuring their legacy is never forgotten. The names of 11 officers, including Mark and Scott, are permanently engraved on a plaque outside the Sheriff's Office, a lasting tribute to their service. Check out the show on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, Newsbreak, Medium and most all social media platforms
Sheriff Daniel Staton, who worked alongside both men, emphasized the irreplaceable loss suffered by their colleagues and loved ones. “You never move past it,” he said. “Collins and Whitehead, I worked with them; I was working the night they died, you don’t forget.”
A Nationwide Issue
Mark and Scott’s deaths were part of a much larger issue: drunk driving. Every year, nearly 10,000 Americans lose their lives in alcohol-related crashes. Fortunately, thanks to stricter laws, increased awareness, and law enforcement efforts, drunk driving fatalities have decreased by more than a third over the past three decades. In Oregon, DUI citations have significantly dropped since the mid-1990s, a testament to ongoing efforts to prevent similar tragedies. Killed in the Line Of Duty Oregon Reserve Deputies Father, Special Episode. It is available as a free podcast on the Law Enforcement Talk Radio Show and Podcast website, on Apple Podcasts, Spotify and most major podcast platforms.
Keeping Their Memory Alive
Jim Whitehead continues to share his son’s story through various platforms, including social media channels like Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn. His mission is to ensure that Mark’s sacrifice is never forgotten and to advocate for safer roads and stronger support for families of fallen officers.
For those who wish to learn more, Jim has shared his journey on podcasts available on Apple and Spotify, shedding light on the profound impact of losing a loved one in the line of duty. His story serves as both a tribute and a call to action, honoring those who have served while working toward a safer future for all. Killed in the Line Of Duty Oregon Reserve Deputy's Father. Special Episode.
Mark Alan Whitehead and Scott Collins gave their lives in service to their community. Their sacrifice is a solemn reminder of the dangers law enforcement officers face daily. By remembering them, supporting their families, and working to prevent similar tragedies, we ensure that their legacy lives on.
You can help contribute money to make the Gunrunner Movie. The film that Hollywood won't touch. It is about a now Retired Police Officer that was shot 6 times while investigating Gunrunning. He died 3 times during Medical treatment and was resuscitated. You can join the fight by giving a monetary "gift" to help ensure the making of his film at agunrunnerfilm.com.
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Killed in the Line Of Duty Oregon Reserve Deputy's Father. Special Episode.
Attributions
Multnomah County Sheriff's Office
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Retired Police Sergeant, Music Radio Personality, Talk Radio Show Host, Podcaster and Producer
John J. Wiley is a retired Police Sergeant turned radio personality. He has been a full time FM Music Radio DJ since 2005. In 2017 he founded the Law Enforcement Today Podcast, in a partnership with Robert Greenberg of Law Enforcement Today. The show is now named the Law Enforcement Talk Radio Show and Podcast.
Within a couple months a radio station heard an episode of the podcast and asked him to create a radio version, which he did. It has been syndicated since the Spring of 2017 and has numerous affiliate radio stations across the US.
