UPDATE: A devastating incident unfolded yesterday when Ohio State Trooper Nicholas P. Cayton, aged 40, lost his life while assisting a disabled semi-truck on State Route 11 in Mahoning County. The tragic accident occurred at approximately 11:52 a.m., leaving the community in shock and mourning.
According to reports from Cleveland19, Trooper Cayton was seated in his marked cruiser with emergency lights flashing when he was struck by a Mack Granite truck driven by 35-year-old Ryan Rach. The impact propelled Cayton’s cruiser into the disabled semi-truck, also injuring its driver, Jesus Herrera Vasquez, who was nearby at the time. Tragically, Trooper Cayton was pronounced dead at the scene, while Vasquez was airlifted to a hospital for urgent medical treatment. Rach, the truck driver, sustained no injuries.
In response to this heartbreaking loss, Ohio Governor Mike DeWine ordered flags to be flown at half-staff across Mahoning County, including at the Ohio Statehouse, the Vern Riffe Center, and the Rhodes State Office Tower. This tribute will remain in effect until sunset on the day of Cayton’s funeral, reflecting the somber mood shared by the entire state.
Patrol Superintendent Col. Charles Jones expressed the deep sorrow felt within the Ohio State Highway Patrol, stating, “
Today, the patrol lost a member of our family. This is a tragedy for the Ohio State Highway Patrol and the Ohio Department of Public Safety. Our prayers go out to the Cayton family during this difficult time.
”
Local first responders, including fire and police departments, alongside state agencies such as the Ohio Environmental Protection Agency and the Department of Transportation, were dispatched to the crash site, providing assistance in the aftermath of this devastating event.
As the investigation into the incident continues, officials are working to gather all details surrounding the circumstances of the crash. The community is left to grapple with the loss of a dedicated officer who exemplified the courage and commitment to serve and protect.
This incident serves as a grim reminder of the dangers that law enforcement officers face daily as they respond to emergencies. The outpouring of support from the community highlights the impact Trooper Cayton had during his service.
Stay tuned for further updates as this story develops.
