Texas State Trooper Dies After Being Struck While Investigating Crash

A 25-year-old Texas Highway Patrol trooper died after being struck by a vehicle while investigating a traffic crash in Ector County, Texas.

Trooper Kevin Alexis Ramirez Vasquez was responding to the crash along State Highway 302 near Odessa on September 17, 2024, when he was hit by another vehicle, according to the Texas Department of Public Safety.

Trooper Suffered Serious Injuries

Ramirez Vasquez suffered severe injuries in the collision and was initially taken to Medical Center Hospital in Odessa. He was later airlifted to a hospital in the Lubbock area for further treatment.

Despite efforts to save him, he died from his injuries on September 28.

A Life Dedicated to Service

Ramirez Vasquez joined the Texas Department of Public Safety in 2023 and was stationed in Odessa. Before becoming a state trooper, he served in the United States Army and later continued his military service with the National Guard.

Texas DPS described him as someone who lived a life of service and said his commitment to keeping roads safe and protecting the public would not be forgotten.

He is survived by his parents and three siblings.

Remembered by His Department

Texas DPS Director Steven McCraw expressed condolences to Ramirez Vasquez’s family, friends and colleagues following his death.

The trooper was the 241st Texas DPS officer to die in the line of duty since the department’s records began in 1823.

The Texas DPS Troopers Foundation also launched a fundraising effort through its Help-a-Hero program to support Ramirez Vasquez’s family.

A Reminder of the Risks of Roadside Emergencies

Traffic stops and crash investigations can place emergency responders in dangerous conditions, particularly when they are working close to moving traffic.

Ramirez Vasquez’s death highlights the risks faced by officers and other emergency workers while helping people on busy roads.

Sources

• Texas Department of Public Safety — “DPS Trooper Dies After Being Struck During Crash Investigation” — September 28, 2024.
• American Association of State Troopers — “Texas DPS Trooper Dies After Being Struck During Crash Investigation” — September 28, 2024.
• Fox News — “Texas state trooper dies after being hit by vehicle: ‘Lived a life of service’” — September 29, 2024.