Texas Department of Public Safety - Texas Highway Patrol, Texas
End of Watch Sunday, May 21, 1989
Add to My HeroesRalph George Zerda
Trooper Zerda and Sergeant William Kuhnle were killed when a drunk truck driver crashed his tractor trailer into their parked patrol car. The officers were parked on the shoulder after stopping another drunk driver.
The drunk driver was sentenced to two concurrent 10 year sentences in prison, but was released after serving only 4 years.
Trooper Zerda had served with the agency for five years.
Bio
- Age Not available
- Tour 5 years
- Badge Not available
Incident Details
- Cause Vehicular assault
- Weapon Automobile; Alcohol involved
- Offender Sentenced to 10 years
Related LODD Deaths
Sergeant William John Kuhnle, Jr.
Texas Department of Public Safety - Texas Highway Patrol, TX
EOW: May 21, 1989
Most Recent Reflection
View all 21 ReflectionsTrooper Zerda,
On today, the 30th anniversary of your death I would just like to say thank you to you and your Sgt. who was also killed in that accident for your service and sacrifice for the citizens of the state of Texas. And to your Family and loved ones, I wish to extend my deepest sympathy.
BPA Mike Casey
United States Border Patrol
El Paso Station
May 21, 2019
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