(Cushing, Okla.) On 01/31/2015 at approximately 10:00 p.m. Trooper Nicholas Dees and Trooper Keith Burch were struck by a vehicle while investigating a collision involving an overturned semi on I-40 westbound at mile marker 195. Trooper Dees suffered fatal injuries and was pronounced deceased at the scene, Trooper Burch was critically injured and transported to O.U. Medical Center in Oklahoma City, where he is listed in serious condition. Both Troopers were out of their patrol cars when they were struck.
The driver of the overturned semi sustained minor injuries and was transported to Shawnee hospital where he was treated and released. The driver of the vehicle which struck the Troopers was transported to a hospital in Oklahoma City, where he remains in stable condition. The secondary crash involving Trooper Dees and Trooper Burch is being investigated by the Oklahoma Highway Patrol.
Trooper Nicholas Dees and Trooper Keith Burch graduated from the 61st Oklahoma Highway Patrol academy in 2013. As the son of a Retired Trooper, Dees had a life long association with the OHP and will be deeply missed by friends and family. Trooper Dees was assigned to the Hughes County Detachment of Troop D. Trooper Burch is currently assigned to the Seminole County Detachment of Troop D, McAlester Headquarters.
“The Oklahoma Highway Patrol has endured the tragic loss of Trooper Nicholas Dees and serious injury suffered by Trooper Keith Burch. We are deeply saddened by the loss of Trooper Dees and are praying for Trooper Burch’s full recovery” said O.H.P. Chief Rick Adams. Chief Adams also asked the families of Troopers Dees and Burch be kept in prayer during this difficult time, as the outpouring of prayers and sympathy from the public touches the entire O.H.P. family.
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