Gov. DeSantis orders flags at half-staff in honor of FHP Trooper Craig Gaines

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. - Gov. DeSantis has announced that flags will be at half-staff in honor of Senior Trooper Craig Gaines after he died Sept. 19 due to injuries, per a Friday press release. 

Trooper Gaines was assigned to Troop H in the Quincy District, where he patrolled Gadsden, Liberty, Franklin, Wakulla, and western Leon Counties. Beyond his patrol duties, he served as lead security for Florida A&M University Head Football Coach James Colzie III, often traveling with the team during away games.

On September 6th, while on the FAMU sideline in Boca Raton during their game against Florida Atlantic University, Trooper Gaines was unintentionally struck by players at the end of a play. Though he initially walked off the impact, further evaluation revealed he had suffered a fractured leg.

On September 19th, while off duty at his home, Trooper Gaines suddenly became ill and called FHP dispatch for assistance. Despite the rapid response and life-saving efforts of first responders, he tragically passed. His death was determined to be the result of medical complications related to his September 6th injury.

Gaines is survived by his wife and three kids, according to his online obituary.

A Celebration of Life is scheduled for Monday at 10 a.m. at the Restoration Place Church in Tallahassee, per the obituary.

The Governor’s Office said Trooper Gaines was a “hero” and loved protecting his community. 

“He lived a life of service and will be remembered for his unwavering strength, compassion, and commitment to those he loved.”

Our hearts are with the Florida Highway Patrol as we mourn the loss of Senior Trooper Craig Gaines.