SC State Trooper in critical condition after being hit by box truck

COLUMBIA, SC (WOLO) — According to the SC Highway Patrol and Serve & Connect,  Trooper First Class Dennis Ricks was hit by a box truck passing through the area while he was conducting a traffic stop.

The incident took place early Sunday morning on I-26 eastbound near mile marker 166.

Trooper Ricks is currently at a hospital in North Charleston where he remains in critical condition.

His wife Jade says in a statement, “He is truly the love of my life. Dennis is my safe space, my strength. He is the kindest, sweetest and most gentle soul. To say he is a phenomenal man and husband is quite an understatement. Please pray for Dennis.”

In a statement, SCHP Colonel Christopher Williamson says, “Trooper First Class Ricks has a passion for serving his community well every single day. Alongside his wife and family, his brothers and sisters in uniform are praying hard for his recovery.”

The driver of the box truck, 45-year-old Anthony Aydlette, was arrested and charged with Driving Under Suspension.

Trooper Ricks has been with the South Carolina Highway Patrol since 2023, where he is assigned to Troop 7, Post B, which includes both Calhoun and Orangeburg Counties.

The local nonprofit Serve & Connect is currently holding a fundraiser for the Ricks family.

Donations may be made through a fundraiser campaign established on Serve & Connect’s website. The campaign will be open through October 31st.

According to Serve & Connect, the fundraiser is coordinated in partnership with the South Carolina Department of Public Safety, the South Carolina Highway Patrol, the South Carolina Troopers Association, South Carolina Law Enforcement Officers Association, the South Carolina Police Chiefs Association, the South Carolina Sheriffs’ Association, and the South Carolina Fraternal Order of Police.

100% of the funds raised will be donated directly back to TFC Dennis Ricks’ family.