CDCR statement on death of PBSP officers

From: CDCRNews
Sent: Tuesday, April 07, 2009 1:20 PM
Subject: Two CDCR Veteran Correctional Officers Die in Tragic Accident

This Notification is being sent out to all CDCR staff on behalf of CDCR Operations Undersecretary Scott Kernan

A tragic accident on April 6, 2009, in Del Norte County led to the death of two veteran CDCR correctional officers. The incident occurred when a large wave came at Correctional Officer Hoyt Walker, who worked at Pelican Bay State Prison (PBSP), and his brother-in-law, former PBSP and Wasco Correctional Officer Troy Kuykendall, and swept both men into the ocean.

The two men were fishing on the rocks behind Battery Point Lighthouse in Crescent City when the wave hit them. Kuykendall’s brother, Ben, who was with the two, jumped into the water and attempted to help, but was washed back up onto the rocks by a second wave. As Officer Walker and Troy Kuykendall struggled to get back to shore, they yelled at Ben to go get help.

While running for help, Ben suffered medical distress as a result of the trauma of the incident. Paramedics, fire personnel, and law enforcement all responded, but unfortunately were unable to reach Officer Walker and Troy Kuykendall in time to save the two from drowning. The victims were recovered by the United States Coast Guard and members of The Del Norte County Search and Rescue Team. Ben was treated on the scene and transported to a local hospital.

Officer Hoyt Walker began his career with the CDCR on April 9, 2000. He was assigned to California Correctional Institution, Tehachapi, until his transfer to PBSP in June 2001. Officer Walker, age 46, is survived by his wife Jody and sons Andrew, age 21 and Tanner, age 14.

Former Officer Troy Kuykendall began his CDCR career in April 1996. He transferred to PBSP in January 2002 then transferred to Wasco State Prison on September 2002. He medically retired from state service on March 8, 2007.

Because of the close relationship of the families, this is a tragic loss. Hoyt Walker's wife Jody was Troy Kuykendall’s sister.

As soon as information concerning funeral arrangements becomes available, it will be shared with CDCR staff.