MOORE, Oklahoma -- Oklahoma Highway Patrol Lt. D. Heath Meyer, who was struck by a patrol car in a pursuit July 14, died Monday from his injuries, Patrol Chief Ricky Adams said.
Meyer, who responded to a reported pursuit, had laid stop sticks on Interstate 35 near N 27 in Moore when troopers Rodney Rideaux and Clint Painter came up the interstate in hot pursuit.
The troopers, attempting to avoid the stop sticks, struck one another. Painter's vehicle then struck Meyer, fatally injuring him. The driver of the fleeing vehicle, Dangelo Ladon Burgess, 28, was taken into custody that night.
Adams wrote: "It is with a heavy heart that I announce the passing of Lt. Heath Meyer. Lt. Meyer put up a valiant fight but succumbed to his injuries," Adams wrote. "For more than 80 years the Oklahoma Highway Patrol has provided an unmatched commitment to duty, sacrifice and dedication to service above self. Lt. Meyer led from the front and served as a superb example for his family, friends, partners and the public."
Adams said Meyer's death makes him the 36th patrol trooper to be killed in the line of duty.
"He (Meyer) is now the 36th brave man who has given his last full measure of devotion to our state and nation. His life stands as a testament to the OHP’s passionate commitment to protecting Oklahomans. Please keep the Meyer family in your thoughts and prayers," Adams wrote.
Adams said the patrol will release details on funeral services as soon as they are finalized. Black bands are authorized to be worn by troopers in honor of Lt. Meyer, Adams reports.
Copyright 2017 The Oklahoman, Oklahoma City
Tribune News Service
