Bush appointed judge is killed outside Nevada federal courthouse in 'tragic' accident

Bush-appointed District Judge Larry Hicks has been killed outside a Nevada courthouse in a tragic accident. 

Hicks, who was selected by the former president in 2001, was struck by a car outside the Bruce R. Thompson Courthouse and Federal Building in downtown Reno on Wednesday. 

The 80-year-old judge was taken to the hospital at around 2.15pm but later died from his injuries. Authorities said the driver, who has not been named, remained on the scene and is cooperating with the investigation. 

Tributes have flooded in for the Illinois-born legal stalwart, who has been remembered for his long service and for being a dedicated family man. 

'Today's news regarding the Honorable Judge Larry R. Hicks who served Nevada for over 53 years is tragic,' Washoe County Sheriff Darin Balaam said on X. 

Bush-appointed District Judge Larry Hicks has been killed outside a Nevada courthouse in a tragic accident

'Despite his notable accomplishments, Judge Hicks once stated, 'My greatest thrill in life is my family.' His life philosophy was based on a balance of family, work, and self,' Balaam added. 

'Larry Hicks was a one of a kind man, revered in our community and, most importantly, beloved by his family. 

'On behalf of my family and the men and women of the Sheriff's Office, we extend our deepest condolences to Larry's son Chris, the current District Attorney, and all of Larry's family. Judge Hicks' legacy will forever be noted in Washoe County.'

Hicks began his legal career in 1968 as a prosecutor in the Washoe County District Attorney's Office, serving as the District Attorney from 1974 through 1978. 

In 1978, Hicks became a partner in a private practice until his 2001 appointment as a U.S. District Court Judge for the District of Nevada by then-President George W Bush. 

Hicks, who was appointed by the former president in 2001, was struck by a car outside the Bruce R. Thompson Courthouse and Federal Building (pictured) in downtown Reno 

The 80-year-old judge was taken to the hospital at around 2.15pm but later died from his injuries. Authorities said the driver remained on the scene and is cooperating with the investigation

'Today, our community lost an extraordinary man,' Hicks' family said in a statement on Wednesday. 

'Judge Larry Hicks was a deeply admired lawyer and judge, a devoted friend, mentor, and a committed servant to the administration of justice.' 

'To us, he was first and foremost, a man who put nothing before family,' the statement continued. 

'He was a hero in all manners, a loving husband of nearly 59 years, a doting dad, an adoring Papa, and brother. His loss is beyond comprehension.' 

Police said the driver did not appear to be impaired at the time of the crash, and the investigation is ongoing.