Trooper Ralph George Zerda

Trooper Ralph George Zerda | Texas Department of Public Safety - Texas Highway Patrol, Texas
Texas Department of Public Safety - Texas Highway Patrol, Texas
Trooper Ralph George Zerda

Texas Department of Public Safety - Texas Highway Patrol, Texas

End of Watch Sunday, May 21, 1989

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Ralph 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
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Trooper 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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