Fla. Highway Patrol Trooper Dies after Medical Issue During Training

Florida Highway Patrol Trooper Michael Diego was "participating in a competitive process for the Patrol’s Criminal Interdiction Unit" at the agency's Tallahassee academy when he suffered a medical emergency.
Source Officer.com News
Feb. 19, 2026

What to know

  • A Florida Highway Patrol trooper died Wednesday after suffering a medical emergency while "participating in a competitive selection process" for the agency’s Criminal Interdiction Unit at its academy in Tallahassee.

  • Trooper Michael Diego received lifesaving measures at the scene and was rushed to the hospital, where he died with loved ones present.

  • Diego had served with the patrol since 2021 and is survived by his fiancé, mother and sister.

Florida Highway Patrol
Florida Highway Patrol Trooper Michael Diego.

Florida Highway Patrol Trooper Michael Diego died Wednesday after suffering a medical emergency during training at the agency's Tallahassee academy.

More on OFFICER.com

North Carolina Sheriff's Cadet Dies After Suffering Medical Emergency During Training

  • Jackson County Sheriff's Cadet Ryan Phillip Ferreira experienced a medical emergency Thursday morning while participating in a physical training assessment.

A Florida Highway Patrol trooper died Wednesday after suffering a medical emergency while training at the agency's academy.

Trooper Michael Diego was "participating in a competitive process for the Patrol’s Criminal Interdiction Unit" at the academy in Tallahassee when he experienced the medical issue, the agency stated in a news release. Lifesaving efforts were administered at the scene, and he was rushed to the hospital, where he died with loved ones at his side. 

No details were released concerning the nature of Diego's medical emergency.

“Florida State Trooper Michael Diego exemplifies what it means to be an American and one of Florida’s Finest," said a joint statement from Executive Director Dave Kerner and Col. Gary Howze. "He lived his life in service and protection to others. … Our hearts grieve his untimely passing and for the pain his family is experiencing."

Diego had been with the Florida Highway Patrol since 2021. He is survived by his fiancé, mother and sister. 

About the Author

Joe Vince
Email

Joe Vince

Joining Endeavor Business Media in 2018, Joe has worked on the company's city services publications. He began working at OFFICER.com as the assistant editor. Before starting at Endeavor, Joe had worked for a variety of print and online news outlets, including the Indianapolis Star, the South Bend Tribune, Reddit and Patch.com.
Sign up for our eNewsletters
Get the latest news and updates

Related

Watch Intense Shootout Erupt Between Miami-Dade Deputy, Suspect with Long Criminal Record
Video: Seattle Police Stop Suspect who Pointed Gun at Officers
First Responder Health & Wellness: An Agency Roadmap
Sponsored
Historic Collaboration, Innovation for the Future
Sponsored

Voice Your Opinion!

To join the conversation, and become an exclusive member of Officer, create an account today!