A Texas Highway Patrol trooper was killed during a crash while trying to conduct a traffic stop Wednesday afternoon near Childress.
Trooper Sergio Romero, 27, was pronounced dead at the scene of the crash that was reported about 4 p.m. Wednesday, June 17, along U.S. 287 near Childress, according to a news release from the Texas Department of Public Safety.
Investigators believe Romero was attempting to conduct a traffic stop on the highway when a tractor-trailer pulled out in front of him, causing his patrol unit to collide with the vehicle.
No other injuries were reported. Officials did not immediately release additional details about the initial traffic stop Romero was initiating or if the other drivers face charges as the crash remains under investigation.
“Today, we grieve the loss of one of our own,” DPS Col. Freeman F. Martin said in a statement. “Trooper Sergio Romero served the people of his community and the state of Texas with courage, integrity and selfless devotion. Our hearts break alongside his family, friends, fellow Troopers and all who loved him. We will never forget the ultimate sacrifice he made in service of his fellow Texans.”
Who was Texas DPS Trooper Sergio Romero?
According to the DPS, Romero lived a life of service, serving with the Hall Co. Sheriff’s Office prior to joining DPS as a member of Class B-2025.
Romero was stationed in Childress. He is survived by his wife, Francisca, and two young sons.
Romero is the 244th DPS Officer to die in the line of duty since 1823. Funeral arrangements are still being finalized.
This article originally appeared on Lubbock Avalanche-Journal: Texas DPS mourns state trooper killed in crash near Childress
Reporting by Adam D. Young, Lubbock Avalanche-Journal / Lubbock Avalanche-Journal
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
By Adam D. Young, Lubbock Avalanche-Journal | USA TODAY Network
