Community News

Remembering Officer Les Prince

 

by: Surf City Weekly
Published: August 31, 2026

 

 

HUNTINGTON BEACH...More than 50 years later, his service is still remembered. His name is still spoken. His legacy still runs with us.

Members of the Huntington Beach Police Department joined family, friends, retirees, law enforcement partners, and recruits from Orange County Sheriff’s Regional Training Academy Class 271 to honor HBPD Officer Les Prince #106.

On November 16, 1974, Officer Prince was struck by a vehicle while directing traffic at Beach Boulevard and Adams Avenue during a power outage. He succumbed to his injuries two weeks later, on December 1, 1974.

He was just 26 years old, had served with HBPD for four years, and left behind his wife, Lynda, and their six-month-old son, Michael.

Officer Prince’s memory returned to the academy as recruit Roberto Avalos carried Officer Prince’s baton during a memorial run in his honor, surrounded by members of the law enforcement community and, most importantly, Officer Prince’s family.

More than five decades may have passed, but time does not diminish sacrifice.

Officer Les Prince #106 — End of Watch: December 1, 1974.

Never forgotten.

Photo:HBPD