A Florida Highway Patrol trooper died in the line of duty Friday morning when he crashed on Interstate 95.
Police Officer Zachary Fink collided with a truck while pursuing a felony suspect, according to FOX 35.
The police officers had attempted to make a traffic stop on a Kia driver who was speeding.
Fink attempted to make a U-turn to follow the Kia after the suspect, after failing to stop for officers, made a U-turn and began driving in the wrong direction.
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Private Zachary Fink graduated with the 146th Recruit Class in December 2020. (Florida Highway Patrol)
Fink was hit by a truck. He and the truck driver died in the accident.
The suspect fled the scene and ultimately crashed and abandoned his vehicle. There was no information on what charges the suspect faces.
A person of interest has been detained and the investigation remains active, the FHP said.
“The Florida Highway Patrol mourns the loss of Trooper Zachary Fink, who died 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 the policing profession,” said Dave Kerner, executive director of the FHP. “FHP has a proud history, and Trooper Fink is a hero who died while helping people, something he was passionate about since he was six years old. This dedication and love of helping others defines FHP and the FHP family honors his service and Pray for everyone who lost a loved one today.”
Fink graduated with Recruit Class 146 in December 2020 and was assigned to Port St. Lucie Troop L at the time of his death.
“Private Fink died a hero protecting and serving his community.” FHP Col. Gary Howze II said. “After speaking with his family, I can say that Trooper Fink was living his dream as a Florida State Trooper when a criminal tragically took his life. As a first responder, sacrifice is not new; it is daily and experienced while living, “We have breakfast with the family or when we are at work instead of with the family. We appreciate Trooper Fink's sacrifice and know that the people of Florida are safer because of his commitment to keeping them safe.”
Governor Ron DeSantis expressed his deepest condolences on social media.
“Our hearts go out to the family of FHP Trooper Zachary Fink, who was killed in the line of duty while attempting to apprehend a fleeing felon in St. Lucie County,” he wrote on X. “@CaseyDeSantis and I are Praying for the Fink family and the entire FHP community.”
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Fink is survived by his parents and fiancée.
