A Florida Highway Patrol trooper was killed in a crash on Interstate 95 Friday morning.
According to FOX 35, Officer Zachary Fink was pursuing a felon suspect when he collided with a semi-truck.
Officers attempted to conduct a traffic stop on the driver of a Kia vehicle that was traveling at excessive speed.
Fink attempted to follow the Kia after the suspect, who had failed to stop for the officer, made a U-turn and began driving the wrong way.
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Officer Zachary Fink graduated in December 2020 with the 146th recruiting class. (Florida Highway Patrol)
Mr. Fink was hit by a semi-truck. Both he and the semi-truck driver died in the accident.
The suspect fled the scene, but ultimately crashed the car and abandoned it. There is no word on what charges the suspect is facing.
The FHP said key personnel have been arrested and the investigation continues.
“The Florida Highway Patrol mourns the loss of Officer Zachary Fink, who lost his life in the line of duty,” the department said in a statement on social media.
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“Today is a sad and difficult day for law enforcement,” said FHP Executive Director Dave Kerner. “FHP has a proud history, and Cavalry Fink is a hero who died helping others, a passion he had been passionate about since he was 6 years old. This dedication and love of helping others is what defines FHP. , the FHP family honors his service and prays for all who lost a loved one today. ”
Fink graduated in December 2020 with the 146th recruiting class and was assigned to Troop L in Port St. Lucie at the time of his death.
“Officer Fink died a hero who protected and served his community.” FHP Col. Gary Howes II said. “After speaking with the family, I can say that Officer Fink was living the dream as a Florida State Constable when a felon tragically took his life. As a first responder, sacrifice is nothing new. It is experienced on a daily basis while alive, while missing.” “You can eat breakfast with your family, or you can eat it when you are at work and not with your family.” We are grateful for Officer Fink’s sacrifice and know that Floridians are safer because of his commitment to keeping them safe.”
Gov. Ron DeSantis expressed his condolences on social media.
“My heart goes out to the family of FHP Officer Zachary Fink, who was killed in the line of duty while attempting to apprehend a felon on the run in St. Lucie County,” he wrote to X. The Fink family and the entire FHP community. ”
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Fink is survived by his parents and fiance.
