Authorities have reported a devastating crash in Florida that has resulted in the loss of two deputies’ lives, while a third deputy remains in critical condition. This tragic incident has left the community in shock and mourning.
Three motorcycle deputies from the Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office were conducting traffic enforcement on Thursday morning when an incident took place on Southern Boulevard in Palm Beach County.
According to Palm Beach County Sheriff Ric Bradshaw, one of the deputies encountered difficulty starting his motorcycle and sought assistance from the other two deputies to move the bike off the road.
As the deputies were patiently awaiting additional help, they found themselves positioned on a lush grassy area adjacent to the road. Suddenly, a woman driving in the center lane attempted to overtake another vehicle but unfortunately, she miscalculated her maneuver. In doing so, she ended up colliding with all three deputies.
During a press briefing on Thursday afternoon, Bradshaw reported that all three individuals were launched into the air in different directions.
Two of the deputies were taken to a nearby hospital, where sadly, they were declared dead, according to Bradshaw.
The sheriff’s office has identified the individuals as Cpl. Luis Paez and Deputy Sheriff Ralph “Butch” Waller. Cpl. Luis Paez had been a motor deputy for over two decades, joining the office in 1988. Deputy Sheriff Ralph “Butch” Waller served in the motor unit for more than 18 years.
Deputy Ignacio “Dan” Diaz, who joined the office in 2004 and has been a part of the motor unit for over a decade, underwent surgery and is currently in critical but stable condition, according to the spokesperson.
Bradshaw expressed hope that the person involved in the crash will recover from their injuries. However, he also acknowledged that the crash was severe.
The crash is currently under investigation by the sheriff’s office and Florida Highway Patrol.
According to Bradshaw, the female driver sustained only minor injuries. Based on the initial investigation, it does not seem that she was impaired. At this point, investigators have not determined the speed at which she was traveling.
Authorities have stated that no criminal charges have been filed.
Law enforcement officers from various parts of South Florida accompanied the deceased deputies as they were transported from the hospital to the county medical examiner’s office, according to WPBF, a West Palm Beach ABC affiliate.
Bradshaw emphasizes the high stakes involved in the professions of law enforcement, public safety, and the military. When leaving home, these individuals never know if it will be the last time they see their loved ones. He further illustrates this point by stating, “I’m sure that these deputies, not in their wildest dreams, thought that this was going to happen to them today.”
“When a deputy passes away, it’s not just a loss for the individual, but also a profound loss for the entire community,” he expressed. “It’s a challenging and emotional experience.”
According to Bradshaw, the deputies participated in providing a police escort for Donald Trump on election night. The president-elect was present at his campaign headquarters in West Palm Beach during that time.
In the aftermath of the crash, Florida Senator Rick Scott revealed that he has had a conversation with Bradshaw.
In a heartfelt statement on X, Scott expressed his deep gratitude for the courageous men and women in uniform who selflessly risk their lives every day to ensure our safety. However, he also acknowledged the shocking nature of news like this, which always manages to catch us off guard.