Fundraiser established for memorial highway

Navasota Police Department is partnering with the Grimes County True Blue Foundation and First National Bank of Anderson for a donation account to help fund signage for the Sargeant Mark Butler Memorial Highway. 

House Bill 351, authored by State Representative, Trey Wharton, designates a portion of State Highway 6 between Navasota and College Station to be named the “Sergeant Mark Butler Memorial Highway.”

Butler was killed Jan. 15, when he selflessly drove his patrol car into a pursuit suspect that was driving the wrong direction on Texas 6 northbound. The pursuit began in College Station and entered Navasota at high speeds. His heroics saved countless lives, but he left behind his wife and two young sons.

Navasota Police Chief Mike Mize said the memorial highway is a tribute to a true hero. “Sergeant Butler was a dedicated public servant who gave his life protecting the people of Navasota,” he said. “On Jan. 15, we lost not only a fellow officer but a friend, a mentor, and a true hero. His commitment to public safety and his courage in the face of danger set an example for all of us.”

“We honor Mark not just with this highway, but every day in the way we serve,” Mize said. “His spirit will always be a part of the Navasota Police Department, and we remain forever grateful for his service.”

Although legislation was approved to rename the stretch of highway, it does not include funding. TxDOT will place memorial signs at both ends of the designated stretch of State Highway 6, and at appropriate locations along the route. Funding for the design and installation of the signage will come from private community raised funds.

Donations may be dropped off at one of the two First National Bank of Anderson locations: 1071 Highway 90 South, Anderson, TX 77830 or 9501 State Highway 6, Navasota, TX 77868. Call,936–873–2511 for more information.

Donations through the Grimes County True Blue Foundation may be made online, https://www.paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=NWKKCMZNU3WJS. In the Note line, write “Sgt. Mark Butler Memorial Highway.”

Mize said $40,000 must be raised for signage and installation. He said additional benefits to help raise funds for the highway are being planned. For more information call Navasota Police Department, 936–825–6410. “Thank you, to everyone helping to keep Sergeant Butler’s memory and legacy alive,” Mize said. “We never want to forget the selfless sacrifice Sgt. Butler made to save lives.”