Stockton’s Crosstown Freeway, a vital California state Route 4 that stretches for 200 miles from the San Pablo Bay to the Sierra Nevada mountains, was memorialized on Wednesday for a fallen local hero - Officer Jimmy Inn.
In a ceremony attended by fellow officers, family members, and the public, Officer Jeremiah Skaggs lauded Inn’s contributions and sacrifice to the Stockton community. "This will be a simple but warm reminder to be like Jimmy," Skaggs shared, as the crowd gathered outside the Stockton Police Department's Operations Center on Market Street.
Officer Inn was fatally shot in May 2021 while responding to a domestic violence call in central Stockton. Inn, who had served the Stockton Police Department since 2015, was immediately fired upon when the front door of the house opened. His dedication and service to the community were palpable in the heartfelt speeches made in his memory.
The Crosstown Freeway, which connects Interstate 5 and U.S. Highway 99, has served as an important lifeline through Stockton for over 25 years. It was previously named after Ort Lofthus, a prominent radio station owner, philanthropist, and influential community member who advocated for the freeway's completion. Lofthus passed away in March 2022, but his name will continue to coexist alongside Inn’s.
"The Ort Lofthus Highway remains the Ort Lofthus Highway. That is not changing," affirmed Anthony Presto, a spokesman for Caltrans, further adding, “The two coexist together to honor both individuals.”
Inn's family, including his wife Tela Inn, who is also a Stockton police officer, and their toddler were present at the ceremony. “I think seeing his name up there as they head to work is a good reminder that he’s still here with us,” she commented.
The dedication of the freeway serves as a poignant homage to Officer Inn, a man who gave his life protecting the community he served.
