Trooper Dies After Being Struck by Box Truck During Traffic Stop
COLUMBIA — Trooper Dennis Ricks, 30, was killed on August 13, 2023, after being struck by a box truck during a traffic stop on Interstate 26 in Orangeburg County.
Ricks was outside his patrol vehicle when the incident occurred, prompting a response from emergency medical services. He was transported to Trident Medical Center in North Charleston but succumbed to his injuries two days later.
The driver of the box truck, Anthony Aydlette, has been charged with driving under suspension and is currently in custody.
Jade Riley Ricks, the trooper's wife, urged motorists to move over for emergency vehicles to prevent similar tragedies. She stated, “My husband would still be here if everyone could do that.”
As of August 15, a memorial fund established by the nonprofit Serve & Connect had raised $30,000 towards a $50,000 goal to support Ricks's family.
Visitation is scheduled for August 19 from 4-7 p.m. at Dunbar Funeral Home, followed by a funeral service on August 20 at 11 a.m. at Shandon Baptist Church.
Ricks, originally from Rock Hill, had recently graduated from the Highway Patrol's training program in September 2023 and was assigned to Troop 7, Post B, serving Orangeburg and Calhoun counties.