02/20/2026
EOW 2/18/2026
RIP Trooper Diego
From FHP Colonel Howze -
On behalf of Director Kerner and your FHP Command Staff, it is with great sadness we inform you that, this evening, Trooper Michael Diego (ID: 1529), suffered a medical emergency while participating in a competitive process for the Patrol’s Criminal Interdiction Unit, being held at the FHP Training Academy. Troopers on scene, soon supplemented by Gadsden County EMS, provided immediate lifesaving efforts. Trooper Diego was transported to HCA Florida Gadsden Emergency and later airlifted to Tallahassee Memorial Hospital. Despite extraordinary lifesaving efforts of State Troopers, First Responders and medical staff, Trooper Diego tragically passed away with his loved ones by his side.
Trooper Diego began his career with the Florida Highway Patrol in 2021 as part of the 149th Recruit Class. During his career, he was assigned to Troop L - Fort Pierce District and recently transferred to Troop F – Fort Myers District. He served the Florida Highway Patrol and the residents of Florida for more than 4 years.
Trooper Diego is the 55th Florida State Trooper to pass in the line of duty and is survived by his mother, sister, and fiancé. Please keep Michael’s loved ones, as well as our entire FHP Family, in your thoughts and prayers as we all grieve this tragic loss