05/30/2026
Today, we join countless others across Missouri in mourning the tragic loss of Missouri State Highway Patrol Corporal Gary Daniels. Corporal Daniels dedicated his life to serving others, protecting our communities, and mentoring the next generation of troopers. His impact reached far beyond the badge, shaping the future of the Patrol through his leadership, encouragement, and selfless service.
Our thoughts and prayers are with the Daniels family, the Missouri State Highway Patrol, and all who had the privilege of knowing and serving alongside him. His legacy and commitment to public service will never be forgotten.
Please continue to keep all first responders in your prayers as they carry the weight of this tremendous loss.
If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health, su***de, or substance use, help is available 24/7 by calling or texting 988. Boone County First Responders can also apply for the FRS Resilience Scholarship by visiting our website at https://mofrs.org/res-scholarship
Rest easy, Corporal Daniels.
Your watch is over — we’ll take it from here. 💙🖤
When Corporal Gary Daniels graduated from the Missouri State Highway Patrol Law Enforcement Academy in 2015, he had established the first bond in a trooper’s career: He would forever be a member of the 101st Recruit Class. Decades later, troopers can name everyone in their recruit class. Recruits make it through the rigorous six-month bootcamp-style academy because they learn they are part of a team. A team in which they can rely on one another when their lives are on the line. Over the next decade, Gary established other immutable bonds within the Patrol – first in Troop C; then Troop A, where he could be closer to his family in Kansas; then part of the Patrol’s recruiting division; and, most recently, at the Patrol’s academy, where he could help shape the careers of young recruits.
Each current Patrol member and the larger Patrol family ache over the tragic loss of Corporal Gary Daniels. Missouri Department of Public Safety Director Mark James, a member of Patrol’s 48th Recruit Class, said, “Our troopers are hurting because Gary Daniels was a valued member of the Patrol family with a stellar career. He recruited and encouraged young men and women that they could succeed in our organization and, then in the academy, he helped shape the future of the Patrol. The Patrol and the entire DPS family mourn this terrible loss. Our thoughts are with Gary’s family and all who loved him.”
We will remember Gary Daniels for his selfless service to the public and for upholding the values of the Missouri State Highway Patrol. He will forever be part of the Patrol team.
If you or someone you know is in mental health, su***de, or substance use crisis, help is available. Please reach out to the 988 Su***de & Crisis Lifeline by calling or texting 988 or chatting online at 988 Lifeline. Services are free, confidential, and available 24/7.
