Florida Highway Patrol officer dies after sideline collision during Florida A&M at FAU

On Sept. 6, Florida Highway Patrol trooper Craig Gaines suffered a broken leg while serving on the sidelines of a Florida Atlantic University home game, per The Palm Beach Post. Gaines was providing security for Florida A&M head coach James Colzie III when a player unintentionally collided with him at the end of a play.

Gaines reportedly continued on with his work, but it was later determined he’d broken his leg. On Sept. 19, Gaines died from complications from his leg injury.

“Florida Atlantic University Athletics is deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Florida Highway Patrol Trooper Craig Gaines,” a spokesperson for FAU’s athletic department said in a statement. “We extend our condolences to the Gaines family, Florida A&M University, FHP, and to all those that knew and loved him.”

Gaines reportedly began feeling ill at his home in northern Florida on Sept. 19. He called for help and, as first responders rushed to the scenes, Gaines’ condition worsened. Paramedics arrived and attempted to administer support but ultimately were unable to save Gaines’ life.

“Gaines began his career with the agency in 2008 as part of the 115th Recruit Class, following service with the Havana Police Department and the Gadsden County Sheriff’s Office in northern Florida. Before entering law enforcement, he served in the United States Navy,” The Palm Beach Post‘s Julius Whigham II wrote.

Gaines’ injury occurred on the first play of FAU’s 56-14 win over FAMU after an outside run play spilled onto the sideline. James Colzie III and  former FAMU football coach Willie Simmons, who is now the head football coach at Florida International University, each posted about Gaines’ death.

“Rest Easy my FRIEND!!” Colzie wrote on X.

“For 6 years you went everywhere I went on away trips (even some places we shouldn’t have gone)! LOL,” Simmons wrote. “You escorted me on and off the field for 58 straight games! The laughs shared between me, you, Troy, Jimmy and Detrick will never be forgotten! I wasn’t prepared to get the news Friday of your passing! Rest in Heaven brother! We love you Craig!”

Prior to his death, Craig Gaines was assigned to the Florida Highway Patrol Troop H’s Quincy district. Gaines was reportedly 58 years old. He had a wife and three children.