FLORIDA (Boca Post) (Copyright © 2026) — A Florida Highway Patrol trooper assigned to Southwest Florida has died after suffering a medical emergency during a competitive training process at the agency’s academy.
Trooper Michael Diego, ID 1529, passed away Feb. 18, 2026, after collapsing while participating in a selection process for the Patrol’s Criminal Interdiction Unit at the Florida Highway Patrol Training Academy, according to a statement from FHP Colonel Gary Howze.
The incident occurred during an organized competitive event tied to the Criminal Interdiction Unit. Troopers at the academy immediately began lifesaving measures, which were soon supported by Gadsden County Emergency Medical Services. Diego was transported to HCA Florida Gadsden Emergency and later airlifted to Tallahassee Memorial Hospital.
Despite what Colonel Howze described as “extraordinary lifesaving efforts” by state troopers, first responders, and medical staff, Diego died with his loved ones by his side.
Diego began his career with the Florida Highway Patrol in 2021 as a member of the 149th Recruit Class. He was first assigned to Troop L in the Fort Pierce District, which covers parts of the Treasure Coast, before recently transferring to Troop F in the Fort Myers District.
Over more than four years of service, Diego worked in uniform patrol assignments supporting roadway safety, traffic enforcement, and criminal investigations within his troop areas.
The Florida Highway Patrol confirmed Diego is the 55th Florida State Trooper to die in the line of duty. He is survived by his mother, sister, and fiancé.
In a message distributed to agency personnel, Colonel Howze said the loss was being shared “with great sadness” on behalf of Director Dave Kerner and the FHP command staff, and asked that troopers and staff keep Diego’s loved ones and the broader FHP family in their thoughts as they grieve.
The Florida Highway Patrol Training Academy, where the emergency occurred, serves as the central training facility for state troopers and specialized unit selection processes. The Criminal Interdiction Unit focuses on highway-based criminal enforcement, including drug trafficking and other organized criminal activity conducted along Florida roadways.
No additional details about the specific medical emergency were released. The agency did not indicate any change to academy operations.
Diego’s death marks another addition to the Florida Highway Patrol’s historical roll of fallen troopers. The agency maintains memorial records honoring troopers who have died while serving the state.
Funeral arrangements have not yet been publicly announced.
