PORT ST. LUCIE, Fla. – A Florida Highway Patrol trooper was killed Friday morning in a crash on Interstate 95 near Port St. Lucie, officials said.
FHP Trooper Zachary Fink, 26, died in a wreck with a semitrailer on I-95 north at Crosstown Parkway near Port St. Lucie, according to authorities.
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Northbound and southbound lanes of I-95 remain closed in the area.
At a press conference Friday afternoon, FHP said at approximately 2:40 a.m. the St. Lucie Sheriff’s Office was attempting to stop a reckless driver in white Kia. Troopers said the deputy tried to conduct a traffic stop and during that time, the driver took off. Approximately 8 minutes later, Trooper Fink identified the same reckless driver and a pursuit ensued, investigators said.
Officials said Trooper Fink was pursuing the driver when they made an illegal U-turn, driving northbound in the southbound lanes. FHP said Trooper Fink pursued the suspect by making the same turn, but hit a semitrailer as he made the turn.
Investigators said the driver of the semi was killed in the crash.
Trooper Fink was transported to a hospital in critical condition, but eventually succumbed to his injuries.
Authorities confirmed that other troopers and sheriff’s deputies continued chasing after the suspect, who eventually crashed his vehicle into a tree about 2 miles off I-95. The person of interest took off running which sparked a manhunt.
The person of interest was eventually taken into custody around 8:06 a.m. after 4 hours of searching, FHP said.
“Today is a sad and difficult day for the profession of law enforcement,” said Executive Director Dave Kerner. “FHP has a proud history, and Trooper Fink is a hero who died while helping people, something he was passionate about since the age of six. This dedication and love for helping others defines FHP and the FHP family honors his service and pray for everyone who lost a loved one today.”
Our hearts go out to the family of FHP Trooper Zachary Fink, who was killed in the line of duty while attempting to detain a fleeing felon in St. Lucie County.@CaseyDeSantis and I are praying for the Fink family and the entire FHP community. pic.twitter.com/iWYuKqrkZF
— Ron DeSantis (@GovRonDeSantis) February 2, 2024
“Trooper Fink died a hero protecting and serving his community,” said FHP Colonel Gary Howze II. “After speaking with his family, I can say that Trooper Fink was living his dream as a Florida State Trooper when a felon tragically took his life. As a first responder, sacrifice is not new; it is daily and experienced while living, when missing breakfast with family, or when at work instead of with family. We appreciate Trooper Fink’s sacrifice and know that the people of Florida are safer because of his commitment to keeping them safe.”
Florida Highway Patrol says Trooper Fink began his law enforcement career in Orlando back in 2020. After serving his time in Central Florida, Trooper Fink transferred to St. Lucie County. Investigators said he leaves behind his father, stepmother and fiancée.
The person of interest in this case has not been identified.
Check back for updates.
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