New bill would honor fallen Santaquin Sgt. Bill Hooser

SANTAQUIN, Utah — A new bill would name the Santaquin Post Office after a fallen officer — Sgt. Bill Hooser. Rep. Burgess Owens introduced the bill. And Utah’s three other representatives, Blake Moore, John Curtis, and Celeste Maloy, support it. “We’re looking at naming the post office we have now. But, the goal is to build a second one,” said Owens. After the new post office is built, it will also be named after Sgt. Hooser.

Keeping sacrifice top of mind

The building would become known as the Sergeant Bill Dean Hooser Post Office Building. Owens said he wants to raise awareness of the sacrifice Hooser made. In particular, he wants to ensure that future generations will know Hooser’s name. “They [will] know his background. They know the price he paid. And for those who want to leave a legacy, they will be proud to enter this particular profession that is once again getting [the] respect that it deserves,” said Owens. Lawmakers hope to pass the bill by the end of the year.

Santaquin mayor wants a park dedicated to Sgt. Bill Hooser

Santaquin Mayor Dan Olsen said that Owens’ bill is an honor. Additionally, Olsen wants to dedicate a park to Sgt. Hooser. “We do have one in mind for that,” said Olsen. Hooser died in the line of duty in early May. He was hit by the driver of a semi-truck he had pulled over. Police said the truck driver’s actions were deliberate. Related:

• Santaquin officer killed in crash; suspect in custody
• Police: Suspect in Sgt. Bill Hooser killing held a woman against her will when pulled over
• Student reflects on fallen Santaquin officer’s life