On February 2, a Florida Highway Patrol Trooper, Zachary Fink, 26, and an unidentified semi-truck driver lost their lives following a high-speed chase.
The pursuit in St. Lucie County, Florida has led to driver Michael Anthony Addison, 30, facing charges including multiple counts of felony homicide.
The chase began early Friday, when a St. Lucie deputy followed Addison who was driving twice the speed limit. When he stopped the pursuit, Fink took off after Addison. Trooper Fink attempted to stop Addison for reckless driving but, defying orders, Addison made a U-turn into oncoming traffic on Interstate 95. Fink followed and collided with an 18-wheeler semi-truck. The impact resulted in fatal injuries to both Fink, who died in the hospital, and the truck driver, who died at the scene.
Addison’s attempt to flee ended after he crashed into a tree and escaped on foot, only to be apprehended by law enforcement around 8 a.m. the same day. He is currently held on charges that include aggravated fleeing to elude, with serious injury or death, and driving without a valid license causing death.
A news conference held Saturday by the Florida Highway Patrol outlined the incident’s details and the ensuing arrest. St. Lucie County Sheriff Keith Pearson lamented the avoidable nature of the event, stressing the consequences of Addison’s actions.
Trooper Fink, remembered for his dedication and service over three years with the highway patrol, is mourned by his fiancée, father, and stepmother. His commitment to public safety was echoed by Dave Kerner, executive director, and Colonel Gary Howze, who honored Fink’s sacrifice and lifelong aspiration to serve.
The loss of Trooper Fink and the semi-truck driver has precipitated an ongoing investigation, as authorities and the community grapple with the ramifications of the pursuit.