Fundraiser launched to support critically injured DPS trooper

UPDATE: West Texas Region DPS Regional Director Jose Sanchez announced on Sept. 29 that Trooper Vasquez died from injuries suffered in the collision. The community is in mourning. “Trooper Ramirez Vasquez is a man of valor, honor, purpose, and a true servant leader, he will never be forgotten,” Sanchez said. Vasquez’s organs were donated “in his final lifesaving act,” Sanchez added.

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The Texas Department of Public Safety Officers Troopers Foundation (DPS Troopers Foundation) launched a Help-a-Hero fundraiser to support the family of a trooper who was critically injured while working at a crash scene just east of Notrees in Ector County.

The morning of Tuesday, Sept. 17, Trooper Kevin Ramirez Vasquez, a U.S. Army veteran and recent graduate of DPS class A-23, was hit by a Cadillac as he was working at the scene of a crash at the intersection of Highway 302 and Marian Drive.

Vasquez, along with a deputy who was inside his vehicle at the time of the crash and the driver of the Cadillac, were reportedly transported to Medical Center Hospital for treatment (source: Newswest9).

Vasquez was later flown to a hospital in Lubbock and is in critical condition, according to Texas DPSOA. The deputy was reportedly released from the hospital and is recovering at home.

The DPS Troopers Foundation launched a fundraiser to support Vasquez’ family through Help-a-Hero. The Foundation notes that a fee is charged up front but that 100 percent of donations will go to the family.

‘If you are able, please donate. Prayers for all involved,” organizers said.