NORTH CHARLESTON, S.C. – South Carolina law enforcement is mourning the loss of Trooper Dennis Ricks, who was tragically killed in the line of duty on Friday. Trooper Ricks’ family, friends, and fellow officers paid tribute to his memory with a proper sendoff. His body was escorted from Trident Medical Center in North Charleston to Newberry for an autopsy.
A Devoted Family Man and Officer
Trooper Ricks’ family described him as a devoted son, friend, and husband. His wife, Jade Ricks, shared fond memories of him, describing Dennis as both brave in his work and gentle at home.
“Dennis wore the uniform because he believed in serving others. He was steady and very brave at work and very gentle and joyful at home. We all called him a gentle giant. He loved simple things like spending time with his family, movie nights, trying new places to eat. He loved his family with his whole heart. Everything he did was for us,” said Jade Ricks.
The Tragic Incident
The incident occurred early Sunday morning when Trooper Ricks was conducting a traffic stop on Interstate 26 near Orangeburg. He was struck by a box truck and taken to the hospital, where he passed away from his injuries days later. The driver of the box truck, 45-year-old Anthony Aydlette of Hanahan, is facing charges in connection to the incident, and the investigation is ongoing.
Honoring a Fallen Officer
Deputy Chief Rick Keys of North Charleston Police reflected on the personal and professional loss. “His wife doesn’t have a husband anymore. His mom and dad don’t have a son anymore. This young man was just starting out his career. He’d only been a trooper a few years,” Keys said. “This is a reality check for anyone wearing a badge today.”
Trooper Ricks had been serving South Carolina Highway Patrol troop 7 in Orangeburg and Calhoun counties since 2023. Law enforcement officers from across the state gathered to honor him, with many noting that incidents like this are far too common.
“In 40 years, this will be the 158th service I attend this week,” Keys said. “What you’re going to see today, and half the state is going to see us pay respect to a brother who was just out here doing a job, doing a simple traffic stop for a minor traffic violation. He shouldn’t have had to do that, but a car came along not paying attention and now we’re here today.”
A Plea to Drivers
The grieving family issued a heartfelt plea to drivers in memory of Trooper Ricks: “As we honor Dennis, I just ask everyone to please slow down and move over for emergency vehicles. My husband would still be here if everyone could do that. Please give these men and women the space to work safely. That’s one way we can remember him,” said Jade Ricks.
Support for the Family
In honor of Trooper Ricks, Serve and Connect has set up a fundraiser to assist the family during this difficult time. Contributions can be made through the link provided.
