Puerto Rico Police Agent Dies Following Motorcycle Crash
What to Know
- Officer Aníbal Morales Aponte was riding a motorcycle when he was struck by a vehicle making an illegal turn.
- The incident occurred on Rafael Cordero Avenue, with the driver allegedly running a red light at a traffic light.
- Morales Aponte remained in critical condition from January 7 until his death on January 13.
CAGUAS, Puerto Rico — Officer Aníbal Morales Aponte, 53, of the Caguas Motorized Unit, died Tuesday afternoon after being involved in a traffic accident on January 7, Puerto Rico Police Superintendent Joseph González confirmed in a statement.
Morales Aponte was riding a motorcycle on Rafael Cordero Avenue when a vehicle allegedly made an illegal turn and struck him, according to El Nuevo Día.
The officer remained in critical condition from the time of the collision until his death on Jan. 13.
“Today, the Puerto Rico Police family faces an irreparable loss,” González said in a translated statement. “With deep sorrow and respect, we bid farewell to Officer Aníbal Morales Aponte, a public servant who honored his oath and gave his life protecting our citizens. His vocation, courage, and commitment to duty represent the highest values of our institution.”
González extended condolences to the officer’s family, friends, and colleagues in the Caguas Motorized Unit, pledging the department’s support during this difficult time.
The driver of the Honda CR-V, 20, remained at the scene following the incident. Police reported that the driver was waiting in the left-turn lane at a traffic light to enter the Plaza Centro shopping center when she allegedly ran a red light, striking Morales Aponte.