Shock, Sorrow Over Retired Los Gatos Police Sergeant's Death

Los Gatos/Monte Sereno Police Chief Scott Seaman reacted with shock and sorrow this past long Fourth of July weekend upon learning of the tragic death of retired Sgt. Dave Fishback.

According to CHP, the longtime town law enforcement official was killed July 3 in motorcycle crash in Southern California. The accident is under investigation and few details are being released to the media.

"Dave loved being a police officer in Los Gatos and was so proud to wear the uniform," Chief Seaman said in an email. "He was beloved and respected by everyone."

Sgt. Fishback retired in the fall of 2011, having served Los Gatos and Monte Sereno for 22 years.

Following his retirement, he continued to serve as a reserve police officer.

He started his career with five years as a Santa Clara County sheriff's deputy.

While at Los Gatos, Sgt. Fishback had many specialties including serving on the SWAT team, the narcotics task force, crime scene and major traffic investigations teams and as the department's rangemaster, Chief Seaman said.

However, his true love was working as a motorcycle officer, he added.

"He took Los Gatos' 'small-town feel' to heart in his stewardship of traffic safety. Dave would take a traffic complaint of a problem speeder and go visit the person at their home.

"He took his work seriously, always giving 110 percent to every project, and being first to volunteer for projects. He single-handedly built the department's range and crime scene trailers. Because of his initiative and the respect he held within the department, Dave earned promotion to sergeant," Chief Seaman said.

"Dave was a very fun loving and giving person, both at work and in his personal life. He would unselfishly help others in need and positively influenced the morale and professionalism of the department. He is deeply missed by all," the Chief noted.

Los Gatos/Monte Sereno Police Foundation President Jonathan Knowles said Sgt. Fishback was a very fun loving and giving person, both at work and in his personal life.

"He would unselfishly help others in need and positively influenced the morale and professionalism of the department. He is deeply missed by all," Knowles added.