A new memorial sits outside of the California Highway Patrol station in Martinez, where 37-year-old Youngstrom worked and is now remembered. Three of Youngstrom's four children unveiled the memorial.
"You know, it's one of those indelible moments that's going to live with everybody," CHP Capt. Todd Garr said.
On this day last year during the morning commute, the 7-year veteran encountered a driver on the shoulder of Interstate 680 in Alamo. The driver had been pulled over for an obstructed license plate. That driver suddenly pulled out gun and shot Youngstrom in the neck and killed him.
CHP Ofc. Tyler Carleton was pulling up right behind the suspect's car as it happened. He immediately drew his weapon and killed 36-year-old Christopher Boone Lacey.
Youngstrom died at the hospital leaving behind his wife Karen, two sons and two daughters. Youngstrom's fellow officers made a promise to care for them.
"In fact, there son who is attending college, we've been in contact with that CHP area and they've checked on him," Garr said.
Youngstrom's brother attended Thursday's ceremony and became part of what the CHP considers their extended family.
The memorial will eventually honor four other past CHP officers who died in the line of duty.
