A North Carolina state trooper is dead after his brother, who is also a state trooper, crashed into him during a Rutherford County traffic stop Monday night.
Trooper John Horton, a 15-year veteran of the force, was reportedly conducting a traffic stop at High Shoals Church Road and Goodes Grove Church Road at about 9 p.m, according to the highway patrol. His brother James was driving to the location to assist at the stop when he reportedly lost control of his vehicle, striking John and a detained driver standing on the roadway, WBTV reported.
John was rushed to a Spartanburg hospital, where he died of his injuries. The detained driver was pronounced dead at the scene.
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“Our hearts are broken with the loss of our friend and our brother, Trooper John Horton” said Col. Freddy Johnson Jr., commander of the North Carolina State Highway Patrol. “For all involved in this tragic event, the coming days will undoubtedly be difficult, but we are committed to stand alongside with them with our thoughts, prayers, and unwavering support.”
James was also taken to the hospital to be treated for minor injuries following the accident and has been released.
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The North Carolina State Highway Patrol said there is an open investigation into the incident.
