BRIGHAM CITY, Utah — A Utah Highway Patrol trooper who was struck by a vehicle in northern Utah last week has died from his injuries.
Highway Patrol Sgt. Todd Royce said in a statement Wednesday morning that 32-year-old Trooper Eric Ellsworth of Brigham City succumbed to his injuries.
Ellsworth was hit late Friday night while attempting to slow traffic in Garland because of a problem with a power line. He was struck by a car driven by a 16-year-old girl after he stepped out of his vehicle to warn a truck driver about sagging power lines.
“The outpouring of support our department has received has been profound. Not only has it been noticed by our Troopers and staff, but by the Ellsworth family, too. Thank you for your continued support,” Utah Highway Patrol Colonel Michael Rapich said in a statement.
“My words can’t adequately describe how much we will miss Eric, but I can confidently assure you that we will never forget him, his dedicated service and his dear family who will carry on his amazing legacy,” Commissioner Keith D. Squires said in a statement.
The Box Elder County Sheriff’s Office is investigating the incident. No arrests have been made.
At a press conference, Squires said the teen is a new driver and it appeared to be an accident. Squires, who spoke through tears, said officials are keeping her in their thoughts and prayers along with the family of Ellsworth.
Lee Perry, a state lawmaker who was Ellsworth's lieutenant, said troopers from their northern Utah section want the girl to know they have no ill-will.
"We love her and we understand it was an accident," Perry said.
Funeral arrangements have not yet been announced.
Ellsworth was a trooper for seven years. He is survived by a wife and three young sons.
The Davis County Sheriff’s Office released a statement on Facebook, saying the department’s “hearts are heavy” at Ellsworth’s passing. Ellsworth’s father, Ron Ellsworth, is a retired Davis County Sheriff’s Office deputy, the department said.
“We are sending our prayers, love, and support to the family this incredibly difficult time,” the Davis County statement said. “Eric was an amazing man, just as his father is. We will never forget the risk and sacrifice the men and women take every day when they put on their uniform to protect and serve the citizens of our community.”
Box Elder County Sheriff’s Chief Deputy Sheriff Dale Ward described Ellsworth as a "very dynamic" individual.
"He has been spoken very highly of by all our deputies," Ward said. "He had an awesome presence. He was a great individual. I could see that from our very brief encounter."
Box Elder County Sheriff’s Office Deputy Stacee Archuleta said via email that Ellsworth was “just an amazing person, inside and out.”
“He was the most amazing Trooper and person that had the utmost respect for everyone including those he took into custody,” Archuleta said. “I don’t know anyone that didn’t like Eric.”
Lisa Naef, who works at the Box Elder County Jail, said via email that Ellsworth’s smile will be missed greatly.
“Eric was always a charm to see regardless of the situation. He always had a smile on his face,” Naef said. “Eric was always respectful and very patient with us.”
A release from Gov. Gary Herbert said the governor will order flags lowered on the day of Ellsworth’s funeral. Herbert said his prayers are with Ellsworth family and Utah Highway Patrol.
“Eric was an exceptional second generation UHP Trooper who cared deeply for his young family. A committed public servant, he paid the ultimate sacrifice while keeping others safe from harm,” Herbert said in the release.
Utah Attorney General Sean Reyes issued a statement, saying that November has been a “particularly painful month for Utah’s law enforcement community.” Ellsworth is the second Utah police officer who died after being struck by a vehicle this month. West Valley Police Officer Cody Brotherson was killed Sunday, Nov. 6, and his funeral was held Monday, Nov. 14.
“We are deeply saddened whenever there is harm to Utah officers of any agency, whether intentional or accidental, and we pray today for the family of Trooper Ellsworth that his loved ones may find comfort in the legacy of service and honor he leaves behind,” Reyes said in the statement.
Other Northern Utah law enforcement agencies expressed their condolences to the Ellsworth family via social media.
“WSPD is saddened to hear of the passing of Trooper Ellsworth,” Weber State Police tweeted. “Our thoughts are with his family and (Utah Public Safety) at this difficult time.”
“Trooper Eric Ellsworth, thank you for your service,” Clearfield Police said in a tweet. “Rest in Peace.”
Copyright 2016 Standard-Examiner
Tribune News Service
