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| Officer William H. Murie (#721) / AZDPS |
Published November 29th, 2025
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Remembering Officer William H. Murie: A Legacy That Helped Shape Arizona’s Move Over Law
PHOENIX, AZ (iSkyNews.com) – Today, we reflect on the sacrifice of Officer William H. Murie (#721), whose life was tragically cut short while serving the people of Arizona.
On November 16, 1980, Officer Murie was driving from Flagstaff to Phoenix when he stopped just north of the city to assist at a crash scene. While helping at the site, he was struck by a passing vehicle and suffered severe, life-threatening injuries. Despite the efforts of medical teams, Officer Murie succumbed to his injuries three days later on November 19, 1980.
Officer Murie was not only a dedicated member of the Arizona Highway Patrol; he was also a U.S. Army veteran and had previously served with both the Phoenix Police Department and the Coconino County Sheriff’s Office. His commitment to service was unwavering, both in uniform and in the community he protected.
Why Officer Murie’s Story Matters Today
Incidents like the one that claimed Officer Murie’s life are the reason Arizona implemented the Move Over Law, a safety requirement designed to protect first responders, roadside workers, and stranded motorists.
What Is the Arizona Move Over Law?
The Move Over Law requires drivers to:
- Move over one lane, when safe to do so, when approaching any vehicle with flashing lights on the side of the road — including police, fire, EMS, tow trucks, road maintenance crews, and stranded motorists.
- If moving over isn’t possible, drivers must slow down and proceed with caution, giving extra room to those working or standing near the roadway.
The law is intended to prevent the exact type of tragedy that took Officer Murie’s life — ensuring that first responders and good Samaritans can work safely on the roadside.
Officer Murie’s sacrifice continues to serve as a powerful reminder of the dangers law enforcement officers face every day, and the responsibility all drivers share in keeping them safe.
Stay tuned to iSkyNews.com — your local Arizona news leader.
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