Retired Austin Police Officer Ray Shillito Jr. Dies in Leander Crash

Accident – Death – Obituary News : LEANDER, Texas (KXAN) — The Leander Police Department has released additional information regarding the tragic incident involving a retired Austin Police officer who lost his life in a devastating crash in Leander over the weekend.

The incident occurred on November 12th at approximately 11:50 a.m. in the 8600 block of Ranch-to-Market Road 2243. According to a press release from the LPD, officers swiftly responded to a report of a rollover crash.

Preliminary investigations suggest that the driver of a Ford Excursion, traveling westbound, encountered a mechanical or tire-related problem. As a result, the vehicle veered across the double yellow center lane divider, colliding head-on with a Chevrolet Silverado. The force of the impact caused the Silverado to roll off the roadway, exacerbating the severity of the accident.

Tragically, the retired officer involved in the crash has been identified as Ray Shillito Jr., a 51-year-old resident of Austin. Shillito had recently retired from the Austin Police Department and was actively employed with the City of Austin Development Services Department at the time of the incident. The news of his passing has sent shockwaves through the law enforcement community and beyond, as colleagues and loved ones mourn the loss of a dedicated public servant.

The Leander Police Department is currently conducting a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding the crash. Law enforcement officials are working diligently to gather all necessary evidence and determine the exact cause of the accident. This meticulous approach aims to provide clarity and closure to the grieving family and friends of Ray Shillito Jr.

The loss of an esteemed officer serves as a somber reminder of the risks and challenges faced by those in law enforcement every day. The Austin Police Department, as well as the wider community, is mourning the loss of a veteran officer who dedicated his life to serving and protecting others.

As the investigation continues, the Leander Police Department urges anyone with information related to the incident to come forward and assist in the process. Every detail is crucial to comprehending the events leading up to the crash and ensuring that justice is served.

The community is encouraged to show support and solidarity during this difficult time. Messages of condolences and tribute to Ray Shillito Jr. can be shared on the Austin Police Department’s official website.

The Leander Police Department will provide updates on the investigation as they become available. In the meantime, the community is urged to remain vigilant on the roads, ensuring that vehicles are well-maintained and that drivers exercise caution to prevent tragic accidents like this from occurring in the future..