Trooper Robert G. Smith

Trooper Robert G. Smith

Florida Highway Patrol, Florida

End of Watch Saturday, July 26, 1997

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Robert G. Smith

Trooper Robbie Smith was killed at approximately 3:00 am when his patrol car was struck from behind by a drunk driver near the Northwest 95th Street exit on Interstate 95.

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 21-year-old driver who caused the crash was convicted of manslaughter and sentenced to 15 years in Florida State Prison. On August 13, 2010, with less than a year left in prison, he was in a work release program and failed to return to prison at the end of his shift. He was found sitting on a park bench in his urine in a very intoxicated condition.

Trooper Smith had served with the Florida Highway Patrol for five years. He is survived by his wife, son, daughter, parents, and brother, who also served in law enforcement.

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. In 2000 Governor Jeb Bush signed the Trooper Robert Smith bill into law, allowing judges to keep drunk drivers in jail until their trial.

Bio

  • Age 34
  • Tour 5 years
  • Badge Not available

Incident Details

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

Impaired Driver, traffic stop

Most Recent Reflection

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Hey Robbie, today makes 26 years since that fateful day. I still remember what I was doing when the initial call went out and sinking feeling in the pit stomach when you didn’t respond on the radio. That mustang was driving seemed like it wasn’t moving fast enough and even though got to the scene within minutes it felt like an eternity. I remember jumping the median wall and being confronted with an inferno. I did everything to try to get to you but just felt so helpless. I’m sorry Robbie for not being able to do more. May God have you in his glory and may He always bless your family. I know you have always been an angel for your kids and family even while you were here among us. God bless you today and always! Rest easy my brother!!

Juan Parrilla Trooper
FHP

July 26, 2023

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