Texas DPS trooper killed in crash in Temple

A Texas Department of Public Safety trooper was killed following a car accident in Temple. 

63-year-old Senior Trooper Thomas Nipper was conducting a traffic stop on the southbound shoulder of I-35 in Temple at approximately 3:05 p.m. on Saturday, November 4 when his patrol unit was struck from behind by a Chevrolet pickup. 

“It is with heavy heart that we must notify our fellow Texans that State Trooper Thomas Nipper died in the line of duty today,” said DPS Director Steven McCraw.

Nipper was transported to Baylor Scott & White Medical Center where he later died. 

“Today Texas and our DPS family lost one of our finest. Trooper Nipper was a hard-working and selfless man, who proudly served and protected the people of this state. His commitment to duty and his sacrifice will never be forgotten. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family and loved ones during this extremely difficult time.”

Trooper Nipper was commissioned as a Trooper in January of 1983. 

He is the 220th Texas DPS officer to die in the line of duty since 1823.

Nipper is survived by his wife and three children. 

According to DPS, the crash is still under investigation.