Larry Hicks, a federal judge who served in Nevada for over two decades, passed away at the age of 80 after being struck by a vehicle near the courthouse in Reno, according to authorities and his family. The incident occurred on Wednesday afternoon when Hicks was a pedestrian crossing an intersection. He was taken to a hospital but was later pronounced dead. The driver of the vehicle cooperated with authorities, and preliminary investigations suggest that impairment was not a contributing factor.
Judge Hicks was the father of Chris Hicks, the current Washoe County District Attorney. The Hicks family released a statement through the District Attorney’s office, expressing their profound admiration and love for the late judge. They described him as a deeply respected lawyer and judge, a devoted friend and mentor, and a committed servant to the administration of justice. Above all, they emphasized that he was a family man who put nothing before his loved ones. The family referred to him as a hero in all aspects of his life, a loving husband of nearly 59 years, a doting father, an adoring grandfather, and a cherished brother. They expressed that his loss is beyond comprehension.
President George W. Bush, a Republican, nominated Hicks to the U.S. District Court for Nevada in 2001. He was sworn in shortly after the tragic events of September 11th. Even after assuming senior judge status in 2012, Hicks continued to hear cases.
Born in Evanston, Illinois, Hicks graduated from the University of Nevada, Reno, and the University of Colorado School of Law. He began his career as a prosecutor in Reno in 1968 and was later elected as the Washoe County District Attorney in 1975, serving until 1979. After his tenure as District Attorney, he joined a prominent Nevada law firm, as noted by the State Bar of Nevada. In recognition of his contributions to the legal profession, the association honored him with the Presidential Award in 2020.
As a mark of respect and mourning, flags will be flown at half-staff over Nevada’s federal courthouses, as announced by the U.S. District Court.
The Associated Press contributed to this article.