Texas is mourning the loss of a Texas Highway Patrol trooper and U.S. Army veteran who died in the line of duty after a tragic late-night crash.
Trooper Jerry Wayne Adamick Jr., 44, of the Texas Department of Public Safety, was killed Monday, Sept. 15, when his vehicle went off the side of the road along FM 945 Road South in San Jacinto County. Officials said the car struck a tree and immediately caught fire as Adamick was rushing to respond to an emergency call around 9:15 p.m.
Despite rapid response efforts, Adamick died at the scene. The crash remains under investigation.
A Life of Service
Adamick’s death has shaken both the law enforcement and military communities. A U.S. Army veteran who served more than 20 years, he was a member of DPS’ Class A-2024, and in June of that year he received the Veterans National Defense Award in recognition of his service.
“Our hearts are broken today,” DPS Colonel Freeman F. Martin said in a statement. “Trooper Adamick bravely served our country for many years, and we were proud to have him continue that service as part of the DPS family. He had so much life ahead of him, and today we grieve with his family and friends.”
Family and Legacy
Adamick is survived by his wife, Roxanne, and five adult children. Colleagues and loved ones say being a state trooper was his dream job, and he wore the badge with pride.
Texas Rep. Janis Holt echoed those sentiments, writing in a tribute: “Trooper Adamick exemplified the courage, dedication, and selflessness that define the department. His wife and mother said he loved being a trooper — it was his dream job.”
Honoring a Fallen Hero
On Wednesday, Sept. 17, a solemn procession carried Adamick from Beaumont to his home in Huntsville.
In a Facebook post after the procession, DPS wrote: “We extend our heartfelt appreciation to everyone who paid tribute to fallen DPS Trooper Jerry Wayne Adamick Jr. We are thankful for the support for his family, his colleagues, and the department as we grieve his loss and prepare to lay him to rest.”
Funeral arrangements are still being finalized, but Adamick’s legacy as both a soldier and trooper has already been etched into the hearts of those he served alongside and those he protected.
