Texas is grieving the loss of a dedicated law enforcement officer and U.S. Army veteran whose life was tragically cut short while serving his community. Trooper Jerry Wayne Adamick Jr., 44, of the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS), died Monday, September 15, in a late-night crash while responding to an emergency call.

According to officials, the accident occurred around 9:15 p.m. on FM 945 Road South in San Jacinto County. Adamick’s patrol vehicle veered off the road, struck a tree, and caught fire. Despite immediate response efforts, the flames engulfed the car, and Adamick died at the scene. The crash remains under investigation as colleagues and family members grapple with the devastating loss.

A Life of Service

Adamick’s passing has left a deep impact not only on law enforcement but also on the military community. Before joining the Texas Highway Patrol, Adamick proudly served in the U.S. Army for over 20 years. His commitment and sacrifice earned him the Veterans National Defense Award, which he received in June 2024 as part of DPS’ Class A-2024.

“Our hearts are broken today,” DPS Colonel Freeman F. Martin said in a heartfelt statement. “Trooper Adamick bravely served our country for many years, and we were proud to have him continue that service as part of the DPS family. He had so much life ahead of him, and today we grieve with his family and friends.”

Adamick’s dedication to public safety was widely admired. Colleagues described him as someone who approached each shift with professionalism and courage, treating his work not simply as a job but as a calling. His military background, combined with his passion for law enforcement, made him a respected figure among both fellow troopers and the communities he protected.

Family and Legacy

Beyond the uniform, Adamick was a husband, father, and family man who cherished his loved ones deeply. He is survived by his wife, Roxanne, and their five adult children. Friends say he balanced his demanding career with devotion to his family, and that the badge he wore was a reflection of the values he instilled at home: integrity, selflessness, and strength.

Texas Representative Janis Holt shared her condolences in a tribute post, emphasizing his legacy of service. “Trooper Adamick exemplified the courage, dedication, and selflessness that define the department,” Holt wrote. “His wife and mother said he loved being a trooper — it was his dream job.”

Honoring a Fallen Hero

Just two days after the accident, on Wednesday, September 17, the DPS organized a solemn procession to honor their fallen colleague. Law enforcement vehicles escorted Adamick’s body from Beaumont to his hometown of Huntsville. Along the route, community members lined the roads, waving flags, saluting, and holding signs of support.

In a Facebook post following the procession, the DPS expressed gratitude for the outpouring of love and respect. “We extend our heartfelt appreciation to everyone who paid tribute to fallen DPS Trooper Jerry Wayne Adamick Jr. We are thankful for the support for his family, his colleagues, and the department as we grieve his loss and prepare to lay him to rest.”

The tribute was a powerful reminder of how deeply Adamick touched lives, both as a protector of public safety and as a man of faith and family.

A Lasting Impact

Funeral arrangements are still being finalized, but the memory of Trooper Adamick’s service has already been firmly etched in the hearts of those he worked alongside and the communities he safeguarded. His story is one of sacrifice — a man who gave decades of his life to serving others, first in the military and then in law enforcement.

For many, Adamick’s passing underscores the risks troopers and first responders face every day. Behind the flashing lights and uniforms are individuals who put themselves in danger to keep others safe, often without recognition until tragedy strikes.

As Texas prepares to say a final goodbye, the legacy of Trooper Jerry Wayne Adamick Jr. will endure. His courage, discipline, and devotion to duty will continue to inspire his family, colleagues, and the countless Texans whose lives he helped protect.