Trooper dies days after being struck by box truck

CHARLESTON, S.C. (WCSC/Gray News) - A trooper died after being hit by a box truck over the weekend.

South Carolina Trooper First Class Dennis Ricks was conducting a traffic stop early Sunday morning on I-26 in Orangeburg County when he was struck by a box truck.

Ricks was taken to the hospital in critical condition. He died Wednesday night, according to the South Carolina Department of Public Safety.

“This is a devastating loss for his family, for those who worked alongside him in Troop Seven and the entire Highway Patrol and DPS family. Our deepest condolences go to his wife and family as they navigate this immense loss,” the agency said in a post on X.

Authorities said the driver of the box truck, 45-year-old Anthony Aydlette, was charged Sunday with driving under suspension.

He was granted a cash bond of $647.50 on Monday, but court records do not indicate that he has posted bond or been released.

The Orangeburg County Sheriff’s Office is leading the investigation and said Aydlette could face more charges.