By Trend News Line 2024-02-12 08:07:12.
Memorial Service to be Held for Florida Highway Patrol Trooper killed in the Line of Duty
A memorial service will take place on Monday to honor the life of Trooper Zachary Fink, a Florida Highway Patrol officer who tragically lost his life earlier this month during a pursuit on Interstate 95. The crash occurred on I-95 south of the Crosstown Parkway exit in Port St. Lucie.
Trooper Fink, along with a second victim identified as 55-year-old Arsenio Mas of Homestead, was killed in the crash. The memorial service, scheduled from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Christ Fellowship Church in Port St. Lucie, will provide an opportunity for family, friends, and law enforcement colleagues to remember and pay their respects.
In recognition of Trooper Fink’s sacrifice, Governor Ron DeSantis has ordered that American flags and the state of Florida be flown at half-staff at several locations, including the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles in Port St. Lucie, the St. Lucie County Courthouse in Fort Pierce, and Port St. Lucie City Hall. This gesture will be observed from sunrise to sunset on Monday.
A funeral procession is also expected to take place from the funeral home to the church, allowing the community to show their support and honor Trooper Fink’s service.
FHP Col. Gary L. Howze II spoke about Trooper Fink’s dedication to helping others, stating, “Today, he was living his dream, doing just that as a Florida State Trooper. He was tragically taken from us by a felon, a fleeing felon, a criminal, and that’s a tragedy.”
The incident leading to Trooper Fink’s death began when a sheriff’s deputy spotted a white Kia speeding and driving recklessly. After a short pursuit, the deputy disengaged, but Trooper Fink later spotted the Kia and attempted to stop it. The driver fled and entered I-95, driving in the wrong direction. Unfortunately, Trooper Fink’s attempt to follow the Kia resulted in a collision with Mas’ tractor-trailer.
Trooper Fink, 26, had served with the Florida Highway Patrol for three years. The suspect, identified as 30-year-old Michael Anthony Addison of Lauderhill, fled the scene on foot, triggering a massive manhunt. Addison now faces multiple charges, including two counts of killing a human with a vehicle and two charges of murder dangerous depraved and aggravated fleeing with a death.
As the community prepares to say their final goodbyes to Trooper Zachary Fink, his dedication and sacrifice will be remembered by all who knew him..
– Memorial service for FHP trooper killed in crash on I-95 during pursuit of suspect
– FHP trooper killed in crash on I-95 during pursuit of suspect memorial service.