Texas Department of Public Safety - Texas Highway Patrol, Texas
End of Watch Sunday, May 21, 1989
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
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 20 ReflectionsTrooper Zerda, it will be an honor to run in your memory tomorrow for the 17th Annual Run to Remember. I hope to do you and your loved ones proud.
Diana Ingram
5k Runner
May 25, 2018
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