Emergency vehicles shone bright along the highway as a memorial to honor a South Carolina State Trooper who was struck by a box truck during a traffic stop and died.
The South Carolina Department of Public Safety stated that on August 10, Trooper First Class Dennis D. Ricks, 30, was airlifted to the hospital after being struck by a passing box truck while he was conducting a traffic stop in Orangeburg County.
Ricks was struck by the truck on his way back to his vehicle to continue his shift, according to WRDW.
SCDPS stated that after being in critical condition for nearly four days, on Wednesday, Trooper Ricks succumbed to his injuries.
“This is a profound loss for Trooper Ricks’ family, friends, our agency, and our law enforcement community,” said SCDPS Director Robert G. Woods IV.
“Ricks had an entire life ahead of him that was cut tragically short. We will honor his life and legacy, ensuring that we never forget his service to his community and this state.”
WRDW reported that on the same day as the incident, Anthony Aydlette, 45, was charged with driving under suspension.
On Monday, Aydlette was granted a $647.50 cash bond during his virtual hearing in Orangeburg Magistrate Court.
On Friday, Stephanie Simpson told CrimeOnline that as she made her way down Interstate 85 in South Carolina, she wondered why “[she] saw cops all the way here on the side of the interstate.”
She also noticed “fire trucks and police on almost every overpass.”
Simpson later learned the display was to honor fallen Trooper Ricks.
SCDPS lists that funeral arrangements for Trooper Ricks are scheduled for next week.
Due to Trooper Ricks’ passing, Aydlette may see more changes, but nothing has been said at this time.
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[Feature Photo via SCDPS]
