Trooper Armond A. Luke
Died on December 3, 1959
Age 54Utah Highway Patrol
Accidental: Single Vehicle Accident
Trooper Luke died in a traffic accident on Highway 89, six miles south of Circleville. At approximately 11:30 p.m., the 54-year-old trooper’s patrol car was spotted in the Sevier River. The red light on top of the vehicle was flashing but Trooper Luke was missing. Searchers located the victim’s body in the river 100 yards north of the patrol car. An autopsy revealed head injuries, but the primary cause of death was drowning. Investigators believed that Trooper Luke had been traveling northbound in pursuit of a violator when he swerved to avoid a herd of deer. He lost control of his car and plunged into the river. Trooper Luke was the second UHP trooper killed in the line of duty. Married and the father of five children, he is buried in Manti City Cemetery. His bronze name plaque is sponsored by the Utah Highway Patrol Association.
I just want everyone to know that my Dad was a great father. He was well respected as a good and honest man by all that knew him. We all miss him and look forward to seeing him in the next life.
Your oldest son, Garth.
Just a couple of corrections. Dad was christened Alton Armond Luke. He preferred to be called Armond so he changed it to Armond A. Luke. He is survived by five children, Garth, Bobby (deceased), Mar Lynn Luke Soper, Philip and Craig.
Sorry, one more correction. He was born 8 April, 1905, therefore, he was 54 years old at death.
Another small correction. His body was found north of the automobile, as the Sevier River runs from south to north in Utah. One of the few that does.
Phil, we’ve got those changes updated. Thanks for letting us know!