Crash claims life of deputy responding to accident

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An Independence County Sheriff’s Department deputy died in the line of duty Wednesday night in a single-vehicle crash while responding to an accident, according to the Batesville Guard.Arkansas State Police reports 29-year-old Frank Ramirez of Batesville was traveling east on Arkansas Highway 14 at 12:50 a.m. His patrol unit left the roadway in a curve when Ramirez reportedly lost control. His vehicle struck a culvert on the driver’s side. The vehicle then became airborne and overturned on its top, where it came to rest.

The weather conditions at the time of the crash were rainy, and the roadway was reportedly wet.

Independence County Judge Robert Griffin has ordered all county flags to be lowered.

Arkansas Attorney General Leslie Rutledge issued a statement Thursday morning regarding the news.

“My heart and prayers are with Deputy Frank Ramirez’s wife, two young children, his family, friends and his brothers and sisters in blue following the tragic accident that took his life early this morning,” said Attorney General Rutledge. “Deputy Ramirez will always be remembered for his steadfast commitment and dedication to serve and protect his community, and I ask the entire state of Arkansas to join with me in prayer for Deputy Ramirez’s family, the Independence County Sheriff’s Department, and all of my home folks in Independence County.”

Gov. Asa Hutchinson has ordered the United States Flag and state flag of Arkansas to fly at half-staff in tribute to the memory of Deputy Ramirez. Flags are to remain at half-staff until the day of interment.

“Deputy Frank Ramirez lost his life in service to his community,” Governor Hutchinson said. “Susan and I are praying for the comfort of Deputy Ramirez’s wife, two children, extended family, and fellow deputies. Deputy Ramirez’s death is a reminder that there is no such thing as a routine assignment for a police officer. I am grateful that in spite of that risk, hundreds of Arkansas officers such as Deputy Ramirez choose law enforcement as a career and go to work every day to assist and protect the rest of us.”

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