GADSDEN COUNTY, Fla. — A Florida Highway Patrol trooper died after suffering a medical emergency during an assessment exercise at the state law enforcement academy, WCTV reported.
Trooper Michael Diego was participating in a “competitive process” for FHP’s Criminal Interdiction Unit at the agency’s training academy when he became unresponsive on Feb. 18. Fellow troopers and Gadsden County EMS attempted lifesaving measures before he was airlifted to Tallahassee Memorial Hospital.
Despite their efforts, Diego died with family at his side, FHP said in a statement.
“Florida State Trooper Michael Diego exemplifies what it means to be an American and one of Florida’s Finest. He lived his life in service and protection to others. Trooper Diego passed away in the line of duty surrounded by his family and his fellow State Troopers. Our hearts grieve his untimely passing and for the pain his family is experiencing. We are deeply thankful for the rescue efforts of his fellow State Troopers, EMS First Responders, the pilots and medics of Survival Flight, and the medical professionals of Gadsden Memorial Hospital and Tallahassee Memorial Hospital.”
Diego joined the patrol in 2021 and had served for over four years, according to the report. He is the 55th trooper to die in the line of duty.
He is survived by his mother, sister and fiancée.
