In Memory of Deputy Sheriff Luke Gross

Maine residents learned that a local deputy had died in the line of duty when struck while investigating an accident overnight. The accident occurred on Thursday, September 23, 2021, at about 4:30 am. Deputy Sheriff Luke Gross was struck and killed on Route 3. He was 44 years old.

Around 4:00 am, a call came in about an accident in Trenton on Route 3 near the Ellsworth town line. Before law enforcement could arrive at the scene, the driver of the crash had fled. Gross had parked in the Westbound emergency lane and put on his high visibility vest. He was working on investigating the scene and removing debris from the roadway. Deputy Gross was struck from behind around 5:15 am.

The driver of the small pickup truck that struck Deputy Gross stayed at the scene and has been fully cooperating with the investigation. Therefore, no charges are expected to be filed at this time.

Deputy Gross was a veteran officer who had served with the Hancock County Sheriff’s Office for over 18 years. Gross was a big part of the department’s DARE program, a camp counselor every year at Camp POSTCARD (Police Officers Striving to Create and Reinforce Dreams), and a school board member. Deputy Gross had made mentoring the children of Hancock County his duty and life’s work.

Hancock County Sheriff’s Office, Maine

Deputy Gross served the community through his work with the Hancock County Sheriff’s Office in Maine. This was his home community—a smaller sheriff’s department with a great deal of responsibility. The HCSO is responsible for the security and service of papers for the Hancock County Sheriff’s Office. They protect up to 55,000 residents in the county. In addition, HCSO is accountable for the law enforcement services in non-incorporated areas of the 2,345 square mile county, which sits along the eastern shoreline.

Remembrances

Deputy Sheriff Luke Gross leaves behind his wife, son, and daughter. But, he also leaves behind many children he has touched in their lives in the community through the DARE program.

Hancock County Sheriff Scott Kane spoke about how much Deputy Sheriff Gross loved the children of Hancock County. “He loved them dearly and was active in all their lives. Luke had a passion for working with and helping young people. Luke was at home working in schools and being with kids. He was a role model and was highly respected. Luke always had a smile, and he was a joy to be around. He had an outgoing personality and was always willing to lend a hand and help out. We will miss Luke greatly. He was a great addition to our family at the sheriff’s office and a credit to his profession. The world needs more like Luke in law enforcement and in our communities.”

Governor Janet Mills ordered flags to be flown at half-mast to honor the fallen officer. “Today, we mourn the loss of Deputy Gross, a member of Maine’s law enforcement community killed in the line of duty. My heart goes out to his friends, family, and fellow officers. May we always remember that our law enforcement officers are dedicated public servants who risk their own lives every day to protect the safety of Maine people. Deputy Gross ended his watch protecting our great state, and his service and sacrifice will not be forgotten. On behalf of the people of Maine, I extend our condolences to his family, loved ones, and colleagues around the state.”