Texas DPS Trooper Killed in Car Crash

A Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) trooper was killed late Thursday night in north Texas in a single-car accident. The veteran trooper’s vehicle left the roadway at about 10:30 p.m. and was later discovered by a passing motorist.

DSP Sergeant William “Karl” Keesee was on-duty and driving southbound on U.S. Highway 84 near the town of Goldthwaite when the fatal crash occurred, according to News. His patrol vehicle left the roadway. It then went over a guardrail and landed in a creek bed.

No communication about the accident was received from the sergeant indicating he may have been killed immediately or at least been left unconscious until he later died from injuries in the accident.

A passing motorist later noticed debris on the roadway and reported the accident. The DPS is investigating the accident to attempt to determine the time of the crash and its cause.

Sgt. Keesee was a twenty-five year veteran of the department, having joined in 1990. At age 49, he leaves behind his grieving widow and two children.

DPS troopers are considered by many to be the elite force of Texas law enforcement. Before one can become a Texas Ranger, they must have first served as a DPS trooper. Applicants must have at least 60 hours of college credits or have prior military or law enforcement service. They must be physically fit in order to pass the grueling DPS Academy. They must also pass the stringent background check for integrity.

Competition to get into the DPS Academy is always tight and the DPS is able to choose the best candidates to enter their 23-week school. The training is both physically and mentally challenging. Their training covers tactical vehicle operation, firearms, use of force, effective report writing, communications skills, and first aid, as well as other topics. Physical training and Arrest & Control Tactics training are also core elements of our program. After graduation, troopers must continue their training with at least 40 credit hours per two-year cycle.

Texas Governor Greg Abbott paused on Friday to recognize the loss of this DPS sergeant: “Cecilia and I extend our deepest condolences to Sergeant Keesee’s family during this difficult time. It is important to remember that DPS officers put their lives on the line every day to protect Texas communities and we can never thank them enough for their service. Our thoughts and prayers will continue to be with his family and the DPS community as they heal from this tragedy.”

The investigation into the car crash continues at this time.

Originally published on Breitbart Texas.

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