U.S. District Judge Larry Hicks tragically lost his life after being hit by a vehicle near the federal courthouse in Reno, Nevada. Hicks, a highly respected figure in Nevada’s legal fraternity, was 80 years old.
The incident occurred around 2:15 p.m. on Wednesday, May 29, 2024, and the Reno Police Department was quick to respond. Despite being rushed to the hospital, Hicks succumbed to his injuries shortly after. Authorities confirmed that the driver stayed at the scene and is fully cooperating with the investigation. The police have also clarified that impairment does not appear to have been a factor in the accident.
Appointed by former President George W. Bush in 2001, Judge Hicks had served Nevada for more than 20 years. His noteworthy career was characterized by significant contributions to the legal profession, which earned him broad respect and admiration.
Born in Evanston, Ohio, Hicks moved to Reno, Nevada from Los Angeles when he was just 13 years old. An alumnus of Reno High School, Hicks was the first member of his family to attend college, studying at the University of Nevada, Reno. He was a member of the Sigma Nu fraternity, then later obtained his law degree from the University of Colorado School of Law.
Hicks started his legal career in 1968 at the Washoe County District Attorney’s Office. He served as Washoe County district attorney from 1975 to 1979 before joining a prestigious Nevada law firm. His unwavering commitment to justice and his significant impact on the community were hallmarks of his illustrious career.
Nevada’s Governor Joe Lombardo expressed the state’s sorrow: “The entire state is mourning the loss of a man with unmatched professional integrity.” The passing of Hicks leaves a noticeable gap in the Reno community and the wider Nevada legal fraternity.
Respectful tributes poured in for Hicks from the Washoe County Sheriff’s Office, with Sheriff Darin Balaam recalling the judge’s dedication to his family and community. “Judge Hicks, despite his numerous achievements, once said, ‘My greatest thrill in life is my family.’ He lived by a philosophy that emphasized balancing family, work, and self,” Balaam said.
A poignant statement from Hicks’ family was released through the District Attorney’s Office, highlighting his commitment to family and community: “Judge Larry Hicks was highly respected as a lawyer and judge, a loyal friend, mentor, and dedicated to justice. For us, he was, above all, a man who prioritized family. He was a hero in every sense, a loving husband of nearly 59 years, a devoted father, a cherished grandfather, and a brother. His loss is immeasurable.”
During his tenure, Judge Hicks presided over a range of high-stakes cases, including environmental disputes and political corruption trials. One of his noteworthy cases involved sentencing Nevada lobbyist Harvey Whittemore to prison for making illegal contributions to U.S. Senator Harry Reid’s 2007 campaign. Hicks also presided over numerous conservation challenges to federal land management decisions in Nevada, often deferring to the U.S. Bureau of Land Management, but not always ruling in their favor.
In recognition of his distinguished career, Hicks was bestowed the Presidential Award by the State Bar of Nevada in 2020. His son, Chris Hicks, who currently serves as the Washoe County District Attorney, lauded his father, saying, “Congratulations, Dad. No one is more deserving! Thank you for being an incredible father, mentor, and lawyer.”
Reno Police Chief Kathryn Nance underscored the judge’s influence, noting, “Judge Hicks’ death is a tragedy that will leave a lasting impact on our lives.” In honor of Hicks, flags at federal courthouses in Nevada were flown at half-staff.