Arrest Made in Florida Fatal Crash that Claims the Lives of Trooper and Semi-Truck Driver
ICARO Media Group
In a tragic incident that unfolded in Port St. Lucie, Florida, an arrest has been made in a fatal crash that resulted in the deaths of Florida Highway Patrol (FHP) Trooper Zachary Fink and the driver of a semi-truck. The suspect, identified as Michael Addison, 30, is accused of being involved in the collision after evading multiple traffic stop attempts by various law enforcement agencies.
According to the authorities, Addison was apprehended and booked into the St. Lucie County Jail on Friday at 9:21 p.m., as per the records of the county jail. He is now facing multiple charges from the FHP and the St. Lucie County Sheriff's Office (SLCSO), including vehicular homicide, felony homicide, driving without a license resulting in death or serious injury, and aggravated fleeing to elude with serious injury or death. Additionally, he is also facing an out-of-county warrant from the Broward County Sheriff's Office for aggravated battery.
FHP Colonel Gary Howze II expressed his deep sorrow, stating, "Yesterday was a day of tragedy. It is impossible to summarize the feeling of loss felt due to the reckless decisions of one individual with a complete disregard for the safety of others. This criminal chose his actions that took two people from their families and loved ones. He cost Florida one of its finest selfless heroes in Trooper Fink. With his arrest, this repeat criminal will not escape the consequences of his actions and will be held accountable."
The incident occurred around 2:40 a.m. on Friday when an SLCSO deputy initiated a chase of a white Kia, driven by Addison, which was traveling at more than double the speed limit. The pursuit ended when the deputy's vehicle crashed. Trooper Fink, 26, intervened to assist in the situation, according to FHP's Friday news conference.
During the news conference, Lt. Indiana Miranda revealed that Addison made a U-turn on I-95, heading in the wrong direction. Fink tried to stop or warn oncoming vehicles by following the suspect, but tragically intersected with a semi-truck. The collision resulted in the semi-truck driver being pronounced dead at the scene, while Trooper Fink was rushed to a nearby hospital where he ultimately succumbed to his injuries.
Following the devastating crash on I-95, Addison crashed his white Kia into a tree on Commerce Centre Drive. He then fled on foot, leading to a multi-agency manhunt. Addison was later detained by the Port St. Lucie Police Department, as confirmed in a Facebook post by the police.
This heart-wrenching incident has left the community in mourning for the loss of Trooper Zachary Fink and the driver of the semi-truck. The arrest of Michael Addison brings hope for justice, as he faces severe charges for his alleged actions. The investigation into the crash and the events leading up to it will continue as authorities seek answers to this senseless tragedy.