House Bill 3510, introduced by State Representative Trey Wharton, has successfully passed through both chambers of the Texas Legislature without opposition. The bill now awaits the signature of Governor Greg Abbott. This legislation aims to designate a segment of State Highway 6, located between College Station and Navasota, as the “Sergeant Mark Butler Memorial Highway” in memory of Sergeant Mark Butler.
Sergeant Butler lost his life on January 15, 2025, while responding to a police pursuit incident where a suspect was driving against traffic at high speeds. He had served with the Navasota Police Department for nearly four years and was also a veteran of the United States Army. His commitment to duty is remembered by his family: his wife Evette Fannin Butler and their two sons, Elias and Ezra.
Representative Wharton commented on the significance of this designation: “This designation will serve as a symbol of the sacrifice Sergeant Butler and his family made in order to protect others.” He added that it would remind drivers of Sergeant Butler’s courage and dedication.
The Texas Department of Transportation plans to install memorial signs along this stretch of highway. The funds for these signs will be sourced from private contributions raised by the community.
If signed into law by Governor Abbott, this act will become effective on September 1, 2025.
