Washington trooper who defied state vaccine mandate and told gov to 'kiss my a--' dies from COVID-19
(Elaine Thompson-Pool/Getty Images)
A Washington State Patrol officer who defied a statewide vaccine mandate and signed off for the last time by telling Democratic Gov. Jay Inslee to "kiss my a--" is dead from COVID-19.
Former Trooper Robert LaMay, 51, who served 22 years with the State Patrol and retired last October, died on Friday.
LaMay garnered attention from Americans across the country after he signed off for the last time as an officer and told Washington Gov. Jay Inslee he "can kiss my a--" over forced vaccine mandates.
Following LaMay's death, Washington State Patrol Chief John R. Batiste released a statement praising him for his service, which Batiste said "will be long remembered and appreciated."
"I am deeply saddened over the news that our former friend and colleague Trooper Robert LaMay has passed away," Batiste said. "This agency’s prayers and remembrances are with his family and loved ones. Rob served honorably for over two decades, and we were disappointed to see him leave the agency this past October. His service to this state and agency will be long remembered and appreciated."
"Let us now remember our old friend, support his family and loved ones, give thanks for his service, and resolve to meet the challenges ahead with continuing duty, dignity and respect," Batiste added.
Get breaking news alerts in the FREE FOX 13 Seattle app. Download for Apple iOS or Android. And sign up for BREAKING NEWS emails delivered straight to your inbox.
In his final sign-off last October, LaMay said he had worked sick and buried a lot of friends over the past 22 years of his service to the state.
Fox News' Edmund DeMarche contributed to this report.
Watch FOX 13 Seattle for the latest news:
Stay connected with FOX 13 News on all platforms:
DOWNLOAD: FOX 13 News and Weather Apps
WATCH: FOX 13 News Live
SUBSCRIBE: FOX 13 on YouTube
DAILY BRIEF: Sign Up For Our Newsletter
FOLLOW: Facebook | Twitter | Instagram