State Trooper Killed After Brother Crashes Into Him While Assisting With Traffic Stop

North Carolina State Highway Patrol officer John S. Horton died this week after he was run over by his brother, who showed up to assist with a traffic stop, People reports.

Per a press release from the North Carolina Department of Public Safety, James N. Horton was asked by his brother John to help him during the traffic stop at 8:58 p.m. on Monday, Dec. 3. As he made his way to his brother, James reportedly lost control and crashed his vehicle into John’s stationary car. 

John Horton, who was a 15-year veteran of the highway patrol force, was taken to a nearby hospital following the crash but was pronounced dead shortly after. The driver that John had stopped as part of the traffic stop also died at the scene, and has since been identified by the Charlotte Observer as 26-year-old Dusty Luke Beck. James was also taken to hospital for minor injuries sustained in the crash, but he has since been released.

An investigation into what caused the crash, and more specifically what led to James losing control of his vehicle, is ongoing. 

“Our hearts are broken with the loss of our friend and our brother, Trooper John Horton” said State Highway Patrol’s Colonel Freddy L. Johnson Jr.. “For all involved in this tragic event the coming days will undoubtedly be difficult, but we are committed to stand alongside with them with our thoughts, prayers and unwavering support.”