High Desert State Prison (HDSP) Correctional Officer Richard Bianchi died in a single-vehicle crash early in the morning on June 25. He was on his way to provide security coverage at a Redding hospital.
The California Highway Patrol responded to the crash on Highway 44, four miles east of Old Station Road in the Redding area. CHP officers found Officer Bianchi’s overturned state vehicle. He was pronounced dead at the scene. The incident is being investigated by the CHP.
Bianchi, 53, began his service with CDCR on Oct. 18, 2010, and was part of the High Desert State Prison (HDSP) family since Feb. 4, 2011. He is survived by his wife and two adult children.
“My prayers go out to Correctional Officer Bianchi’s family, friends and co-workers on behalf of myself and the entire CDCR family,” CDCR Secretary Ralph Diaz said. “Correctional Officer Bianchi’s death is felt through this entire department. His service to California was largely unseen by the citizens of this state but his daily work and dedication will not be forgotten by his peers and myself.”
“Our sincerest condolences are extended to the Bianchi family, friends and loved ones,” HDSP Acting Warden Jason Pickett said. “Correctional Officer Bianchi was a consummate professional and an excellent member of the HDSP team. He and his family will be in our thoughts and we thank him for his selfless service.”
Read more tributes to staff and retirees who have passed away.
Follow CDCR on YouTube, Facebook, X (formerly Twitter). Listen to the CDCR Unlocked podcast.
Related content
Gina Marie Villarreal, retired pharmacy technician
Gina Marie Villarreal, a retired pharmacy technician, passed away July 23, 2026. She worked at Central California Women’s Facility in…
Jose Rocha, retired correctional officer
Jose Rocha, a retired correctional officer from California State Prison, Sacramento, passed away July 16, 2026. Rocha began his career…
Christopher ‘Jay’ Jordan, retired correctional officer
Christopher ‘Jay’ Jordan, a retired correctional officer from San Quentin Rehabilitation Center, passed away July 24, 2026. Jordan started his…
San Quentin mourns passing of Officer Michelle Jones‑Harris
Michelle Jones-Harris, a correctional officer at San Quentin Rehabilitation Center, passed away July 21, 2026. Jones-Harris began her career at…
Watch: Agent Byrd memorialized at training center, CMF
Two CDCR memorial ceremonies honored fallen Parole Agent Joshua Byrd, marking one year since his passing. At California Medical Facility…
Ismael Martinez, retired correctional lieutenant
Ismael Martinez, a retired correctional lieutenant from Central California Women’s Facility in Chowchilla, passed away July 14, 2026. He worked…