South Carolina trooper critically injured in the line of duty, officials say
A South Carolina Highway Patrol trooper was critically injured Sunday while in the line of duty, officials said.
Trooper First Class Dennis Ricks was airlifted to a hospital after getting severely injured, the South Carolina Troopers Association said.
Early Sunday morning, Ricks was conducting a traffic stop in Orangeburg County when he was hit by a passing box truck, according to Serve & Connect — a South Carolina-based nonprofit that says it is “focused on fostering positive change through sustainable police and community partnerships.” Serve & Connect was founded in memory of Forest Acres Police Department Officer Greg Alia, who was shot and killed in the line of duty in 2015.
Ricks is “fighting for his life,” Serve & Connect said. Further information on his condition was not available.
No other injuries were reported.
Ricks had pulled over a vehicle at about 2 a.m. on the eastbound side of Interstate 26 near mile marker 165, according to the Highway Patrol.
There was no word if anyone involved in the traffic stop or collision is facing any criminal charges.
The Orangeburg County Sheriff’s Office is leading an investigation into the crash, and it asked Lexington County Sheriff’s Department to assist in the traffic portion of the investigation, the Highway Patrol said.
Ricks, who has been with the Highway Patrol since January 2023, was taken to a hospital in North Charleston where he remains in critical condition, Serve & Connect said in a fundraiser it set up to benefit the family of the injured trooper. Ricks is assigned to Troop 7, Post B, which includes Calhoun and Orangeburg counties, according to the Highway Patrol.
“Trooper First Class Ricks has a passion for serving his community well every single day,” Highway Patrol Colonel Christopher Williamson said in the fundraiser. “Alongside his wife and family, his brothers and sisters in uniform are praying hard for his recovery.”
Ricks’ wife, Jade, also asked for prayers while praising her husband.
“He is truly the love of my life. Dennis is my safe place, my strength,” Jade said in the fundraiser. “He is the kindest, sweetest and most gentle soul. To say he is a phenomenal man and husband is quite an understatement. Please pray for Dennis.”
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This story was originally published August 11, 2025 at 7:12 AM with the headline "South Carolina trooper critically injured in the line of duty, officials say."
