FLORIDA – A Florida Highway Patrol trooper died earlier this month after he was accidentally struck by players at the end of the Florida A&M University football game against Florida Atlantic University in Boca Raton, according to the FOP Florida State Lodge.
Officials said FHP Senior Trooper Craig Gaines died on Sept. 19 while off duty at his home, nearly two weeks after he was unintentionally struck by players while on the FAMU sideline.
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“Trooper Gaines initially ‘shook off’ the impact, but after experiencing pain and following an evaluation, it was concluded Trooper Gaines suffered a fractured leg,” officials wrote.
According to officials, Gaines was assigned to Troop H Quincy District patrolling Gadsden, Liberty, Franklin, Wakulla and western Leon Counties. As extra duty, Trooper Gaines was assigned as the lead security for Coach James Colzie III, Head Coach of the Florida A&M University football team.
As part of those duties, he regularly travelled with the football team on away games.
On Sept. 19, while off duty at his residence, Gaines began feeling ill and called FHP dispatch for help. Officials said he rapidly deteriorated during the call and passed.
First responders, including FHP, responded and attempted life-saving actions that were ultimately unsuccessful.
Gaines’s death was related to complications stemming from his leg injury, officials said.
“Our thoughts and prayers are with the Gaines family and the FHP community,” the FOP Florida State Lodge wrote.