Trooper Robert G. Smith, Florida Highway Patrol, Florida

Trooper Robert G. Smith

Florida Highway Patrol, Florida

End of Watch Saturday, July 26, 1997

Robert G. Smith

Trooper Robert Smith was killed at approximately 3:00 am when his patrol car was struck from behind by a drunk driver. He had just finished a traffic stop on I-95 and was completing paperwork when the crash occurred. Shortly after impact his cruiser burst into flames and he burned to death after being trapped inside.

The driver who caused the crash was convicted in connection with his death and sentenced to 15 years in Florida State Prison.

Trooper Smith had served with the Florida Highway Patrol for five years and is survived by his wife, young son and daughter. Between 1985 and 1989 Trooper Smith was a pitcher for the Minnesota Twins. In each of the previous four years he had made over 100 DUI arrests.

Bio

Age 34
Tour 5 years
Badge Not available

Incident Details

Cause Vehicular assault
Weapon Automobile; Alcohol involved
Offender Sentenced to 15 years

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Most Recent Reflection

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I saw the notice in today's Miami Herald remembering the anniversary of his on-duty death. I want his family to know that I still remember Trooper Smith because he had stopped by my traffic stops several times when I was conducting traffic stops on I-75 usually on my way home. I was with the Miami-Dade Police Department for 30 years, now retired, but have never forgotten Trooper Smith just checking that another officer was ok instead of just driving by...what a stand-up nice guy! I also remember the shock when I heard of his death at hands of drunk driver-but know he saved many lives by his DUI enforcement over the years. I will never forget him & honor his memory with his family today!

Retired Captain Martha Singleton
Miami Dade Police Department (retired)

July 26, 2016