PORT ST. LUCIE, Fla. — A Florida Highway Patrol trooper was killed in the line of duty following a chase and crash on Interstate 95, according to FHP.
The driver of a semi-truck was also killed in the crash.
FHP identified the trooper as Zachary Fink. He was just 26 years old and had been a trooper for three years.
According to FHP during a news conference, the crash happened around 3 a.m. Friday on I-95 in St. Lucie County. Before reaching the interstate, Fink was reportedly chasing after the driver of a white Kia sedan that was going at least twice the posted speed limit.
Eventually, the Kia driver went onto I-95 with Fink in pursuit. Minutes later, the driver turned around and started speeding down I-95 going the wrong way.
Fink also turned around to continue his pursuit, but as he did, he collided with the driver of a semi-truck.
Fink was airlifted to the hospital where he died. The truck driver died at the scene, according to FHP.
According to FHP, the Kia driver continued going the wrong way until they ultimately crashed into a tree. From there, the driver ran away on foot. They were eventually taken into custody as a person of interest, FHP said.
Fink graduated from the FHP academy in December 2020 and is survived by his fiancée, mother and father.
Condolences from state leaders have poured in since news of Fink's death.
Gov. Ron DeSantis offered his and First Lady Casey DeSantis' prayers for Fink and his loved ones.
"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," the tweet said. "[Casey DeSantis] and I are praying for the Fink family and the entire FHP community."
"On behalf of Sheriff Keith Pearson and the men and women of the St. Lucie County Sheriff’s Office, we express our deepest condolences to the family, friends and colleagues of FHP Trooper Zachary Fink, who died in the line of duty after a crash on I-95 early this morning," the tweet said.
"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."
"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."
a.m.
