Lance Corporal Richard A. Lee / Florida Highway Patrol (FHP)
By Ciara Perez, Senior Multimedia Correspondent
iSkyNews.com (ISN) – Published May 2, 2026
CHESTER COUNTY, S.C. — In a moment that could have ended in tragedy, one trooper made a decision that likely saved countless lives.
The American Association of State Troopers has named Lance Corporal Richard A. Lee of the South Carolina Highway Patrol as the 2026 Trooper of the Year, recognizing his bravery during a dangerous wrong-way pursuit last summer.
🚔 A Routine Call Turned Dangerous
It started as a pursuit involving a stolen vehicle heading into Chester County on July 8, 2025. Trooper Lee positioned himself along Interstate 77, preparing to stop the suspect with spike strips.
But then things took a sudden and terrifying turn.
The suspect vehicle exited the interstate… then got back on — going the wrong way.
Drivers ahead had no idea what was coming.
⚠️ “He Knew What Was About to Happen”
As the car sped toward oncoming traffic, Lee quickly realized the danger.
There wasn’t time to wait.
There wasn’t time to hope the driver would stop.
So he made a decision most people couldn’t imagine making.
He drove straight toward the threat.
Lee intentionally placed his patrol vehicle in the path of the oncoming car.
The two vehicles collided — bringing the pursuit to an immediate end.
That crash likely prevented a head-on collision with innocent drivers just seconds away.
💪 Walked Away — Others Got to Go Home
Even more incredible — Lee survived the crash without serious injuries.
And because of what he did, so did everyone else on that stretch of highway.
Officials say his actions were taken “without concern for his own safety,” and directly stopped a deadly situation from unfolding.
🏆 Recognized Across the Country
The honor comes from the American Association of State Troopers, which selects one trooper each year from across the nation.
Lee stood out among nominees from agencies nationwide, including the Florida Highway Patrol and others, for what officials describe as true heroism in the line of duty.
🇺🇸 More Than a Title
This isn’t just an award — it’s a reminder of what law enforcement officers face every day.
Split-second decisions.
Real danger.
And sometimes… putting their own lives on the line so others can make it home.
For Lance Corporal Richard A. Lee, that moment came on a highway in South Carolina — and he didn’t hesitate.
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