The Texas community is grieving the heartbreaking loss of Trooper Kevin Ramirez Vasquez of the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS), who tragically passed away following a fatal car accident on September 17, 2024. Kevin Vasquez was struck by a vehicle while directing traffic in Ector County, a collision that ultimately claimed his life despite efforts to save him. Vasquez was airlifted to a hospital in Lubbock but succumbed to his injuries shortly after.
The Krugerville Police Department shared the following statement: “We regret to inform you of the passing of Trooper Kevin Vasquez of the Texas Department of Public Safety. On September 17, while responding to a traffic collision in Ector County, Texas Highway Patrol Trooper Kevin Ramirez Vasquez was struck by a car, which seriously injured him. After being transported by air to a Lubbock hospital, he passed away from those wounds. Vasquez was an American Army veteran.”
What Happened on September 17?
Kevin Vasquez, a 2023 graduate of the Texas DPS Academy and a proud United States Army veteran, was working on the scene of a traffic situation outside his patrol car in Ector County when the tragic accident occurred. While assisting with traffic control, he was struck by an oncoming vehicle, resulting in critical injuries. Emergency services acted swiftly to airlift Vasquez to Lubbock for medical attention, but sadly, he did not survive.
His passing has deeply affected the law enforcement community and the public he served. The DPS Troopers Foundation has set up a fundraiser through the Help-a-Hero program to support the Vasquez family during this unimaginably difficult time.
Kevin Vasquez: A Life of Service
Kevin Vasquez’s commitment to public service was evident throughout his career. After graduating from the Texas DPS Academy in 2023, he began his work as a police officer in Odessa, Texas. His training included community policing, crisis management, and law enforcement tactics, which allowed him to foster trust between the police force and the local community. Known for his dedication to ensuring neighborhood safety, he was respected by both his colleagues and the residents he served.
As part of his ongoing professional development, Vasquez also received specialized training in traffic enforcement and conflict resolution. His dedication to the people of Odessa and his passion for law enforcement made him a promising and respected officer, poised for a long career of service and protection.
In Memory of Kevin Vasquez
Trooper Kevin Vasquez’s death is a profound loss to his family, friends, fellow officers, and the entire Texas community. His dedication to serving others, first in the U.S. Army and later as a Texas state trooper, reflects his deep commitment to protecting and supporting his fellow citizens.
An obituary for Kevin Vasquez will be released soon, and funeral arrangements will be made public by his family. During this time of mourning, the community is asked to keep the Vasquez family in their thoughts and prayers as they navigate this difficult time.
The DPS Troopers Foundation’s Help-a-Hero fundraiser remains open for those who wish to support the Vasquez family during this period of grief. His legacy of service and sacrifice will not be forgotten.