By Joanna Putman
Police1
PORT ST. LUCIE, Fla. — A Florida Highway Patrol trooper has been killed in a vehicle crash during a pursuit, Treasure Coast Newspapers reported.
Trooper Zachary Fink, 26, was pursuing a fleeing vehicle down a freeway when the driver suddenly turned around to drive the wrong way, according to the report. As Fink attempted to follow, his cruiser was struck by a semitrailer.
The truck driver was pronounced dead at the scene, according to the report. Fink was transported to a hospital, where he died.
The suspect continued to flee in his vehicle until he struck a tree, according to a WPTV report. He then fled on foot, leading to a large, multi-agency manhunt. He was apprehended about five hours later.
Trooper Fink had served with the Florida Highway Patrol for three years, according to the report. He is survived by his parents and fiancée.