FHP Trooper Killed in I-75 Traffic Crash

May 3, 2014

OCALA, FLA. – A Florida Highway Patrol trooper was killed in the line of duty today while working a traffic crash on Interstate 75.  At 1:40 pm today, a FHP Trooper arrived on scene of a two car crash on I-75 southbound at mile marker 341.  Both cars involved in the crash were located on the shoulder.  Just after 2:00 pm as the trooper was talking with the tow truck driver, a multi vehicle crash occurred in the southbound lanes of I-75, in the same area.  During the crash, a southbound pickup truck traveled onto the east shoulder and struck the FHP Patrol vehicle, the trooper, the tow truck driver and another pedestrian as they stood on the shoulder of the road.  The trooper and the tow truck driver were pronounced deceased on scene. The third pedestrian was transported in critical condition to Ocala Regional Hospital.  Northbound lanes of I-75 remain open.  South lanes of I-75 have heavy delays due to the traffic homicide investigation.  Drivers should seek an alternate route.

Additional information will be provided when available.  A press briefing will be held tomorrow morning in Ocala.