A state trooper has died in a car crash while responding to an emergency in southeast Texas.
Trooper Jerry Wayne Adamick Jr., age 44, was responding to an emergency north of Houston on Monday night when his vehicle crashed, according to a statement from the Texas Department of Public Safety. He ultimately died.
“Our hearts are broken today,” said Texas DPS Col. Freeman Martin in the statement. “He had so much life ahead of him, and today we grieve with his family and friends.”
The trooper was driving south on FM 945 in San Jacinto County, responding to help other officers with an emergency around 9:15 p.m. September 15, according to the statement. His vehicle veered off the side of the road, hit a tree, and caught fire. He died at the scene.
Adamick was stationed in Coldspring, near Lake Livingston. He is survived by his wife, Roxanne, and five adult children.
“His family says being a Trooper was his dream,” the statement reads.
He served with the Army for more than 20 years, completing several tours overseas. Afterward, he joined Texas DPS as a member of Class A-2024. He reportedly received the Veterans National Defense Award in June 2024.
“Trooper Adamick bravely served our country for many years, and we were proud to have him choose to continue his service as part of the DPS family,” Martin said.
Adamick is the 242nd DPS officer to die in the line of duty since 1823, according to the statement. Funeral arrangements are still being made, and officials are still investigating the crash.
Law enforcement across the state mourns his loss. The Texas Game Wardens posted a statement in his honor, saying the agency’s “hearts are heavy.”
“We stand with the Texas Department of Public Safety as they mourn the loss of a dedicated public servant,” the agency posted. “Our prayers are with his wife, children and the DPS family during this difficult time.”
Police in the Dallas-Fort Worth area are also remembering the fallen trooper.
“Our thoughts and prayers are with everyone affected by this tragic accident,” the Denton County Sheriff’s Office posted. “Please join us in sending them support during this profoundly difficult time.”
The Denton Police Department said its officers are joining Texas DPS troopers in mourning.
“Our hearts are heavy as we stand beside the family, friends, and colleagues of this fallen hero,” the department posted. “We grieve with the DPS family and ask the Denton community to join us in keeping them and Trooper Adamick’s loved ones in your thoughts and prayers in the difficult days ahead.”
The Lewisville Police Department also offered condolences to Texas DPS and Adamick’s family, remembering their loss.
“We stand with our brothers and sisters in law enforcement during this difficult time and offer our unwavering support to those grieving this profound loss,” the department posted. “May the trooper’s courage, service, and legacy live on.”