Ohio State Highway Patrol, Ohio
End of Watch Tuesday, November 6, 2001
Add to My HeroesFrank Galvan Vazquez
Trooper Frank Vazquez was killed when he was struck by a drunk driver while conducting a traffic stop on I-270 in Columbus, Ohio. He was standing outside of his vehicle when the drunk driver struck the rear of his patrol car. The patrol car, and the suspect's vehicle, collided into Trooper Vazquez and into the vehicle that was stopped.
The 33-year-old drunk driver, convicted four times for drunk driving, was charged with aggravated vehicular homicide and drunk driving. On May 20, 2002, the driver was sentenced to 8 1/2 years in prison. He was released in December of 2009. On May 14, 2012, he was sent back to prison for 30 months for driving while his license was permanently revoked.
Trooper Vazquez had served with the Ohio Highway Patrol for almost 4 years. He is survived by his wife and three young children.
Bio
- Age 26
- Tour 4 years
- Badge 975
Incident Details
- Cause Vehicular assault
- Incident Date Monday, November 5, 2001
- Weapon Automobile; Alcohol involved
- Offender Released in 2009
Most Recent Reflection
View all 212 ReflectionsHey Dad, I'm sorry I haven't talked to you for a while, the time has flown by, and I've only just now started to process everything. I've been seeing white butterflies everywhere I go and can't help but feel like those are "your" signs. I think of how you're always gonna be protecting me. I'm sorry that I haven't been really making the best decisions. I received a traumatic brain injury when I was 19 and it's changed my life a lot, still in ways that I'm noticing even today. I feel as though your protection has kept me alive and well. I've had quite a few close calls but somehow keep coming out without a scratch. I can't help but think you're there, protecting both me and the family. I think of you almost every day and try to visit whenever I can (the Mrs. and I have been talking about keeping up some flowers in your spot, what are your favorites?). I love you so much and will always keep your image alive. I see your face whenever I see mine and hate to say it, but I feel like I have to keep *you* alive. It feels almost as if it's a responsibility and I won't lie when I say that it weighs on me a little. I can't help but feel whenever I talk to people about you, are they talking *about you*? It messes with my head sometimes.I strive to be as strong and full of fire and passion as you once did. I didn't get to know you but I am always looking for the pieces. Something tells me that I'll never stop searching, and that's okay.
I will never forget you, and we will always be together, from now until the end of time. I love you.
Noah Vazquez
April 28, 2022
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