Texas DPS trooper dies while on duty following traffic crash

CHILDRESS COUNTY, Texas (KAUZ) - A state trooper died while on duty following a traffic crash in Childress County Wednesday afternoon, according to Texas DPS.

Authorities said it happened around 4 p.m. when 27-year-old Trooper Sergio Romero conducted a traffic stop on US-287.

The crash report said that at that point, a semi-truck pulled out in front of him, colliding with Romero’s patrol unit.

Trooper Romero died on the scene, and the crash remains under investigation.

“Today, we grieve the loss of one of our own,” DPS Col. Freeman F. Martin said. “Trooper Sergio Romero served the people of his community and the state of Texas with courage, integrity and selfless devotion. Our hearts break alongside his family, friends, fellow Troopers and all who loved him. We will never forget the ultimate sacrifice he made in service of his fellow Texans.”

Law enforcement across Texoma also shared their condolences.

“Our hearts are heavy tonight,” The Vernon Police Department said via a statement Wednesday night. “Rest in peace, Trooper Romero. We have the watch from here.”

Trooper Romero served with the Hall County Sheriff’s Office before joining DPS in 2025. He was stationed in Childress.

DPS said he leaves behind his wife and two young sons.