CASTLE ROCK, COLORADO— Did you know 11 Colorado State Patrol Troopers were struck and killed because other drivers fail to yield? Two were hit within 24 hours just last week— thankfully neither were hurt.
"Seeing this [trend] already, I'm concerned for my officers' safety," said CSP District 1 Major Darce Weil.
Nationally, 50 were killed since the beginning of 2023. CDOT and CSP addressed the rising number of deaths and injuries of first responders on roadways locally.
"We've addressed it multiple times and the fact that we have to keep on addressing is astonishing," said Trooper Cameron Gill.
Trooper Gill was one of the troopers hit last week. He went back to Highway 470 where his car got hit. Debris and skid marks remain as he relived the moment.
"It kind of hit home like it's an eye-opening experience," said Trooper Gill. "It kind of changes how I patrol and investigate crashes.
"Colorado implemented the Move Over or Slow Down law in 2005. Fines are up to $300.
"It still baffles me that not a lot of people understand and know that this is a law," said Trooper Gill.
CSP and CDOT flash warning lights and signs ahead of the crash.
"This is our office, we're out here every day and we want to go home as well," said Trooper Gill.
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