Connecticut State Police Trooper Killed in Texas Hunting Accident

A veteran Connecticut State Police trooper was killed Saturday as a result of a hunting accident in southwestern Texas.

State Police Trooper First Class Stephen Davis died of a gunshot wound to the left side of his torso, according to a report from the Maverick County (TX) Sheriff’s Department.

Around 6:34 p.m. on Feb. 6, deputies were dispatched to the Cinco Ranch in reference to an accidental shooting. Contact was made with United States Border Patrol agents at the location, who led deputies to the scene of the accident. Upon arrival, Davis was found laying in the brush face up and unresponsive.

Contact was made with Alvin Chase of Warren, Maine who stated while hunting, he shot at a wild hog and accidentally struck Davis.

Davis was pronounced dead at 7:22 p.m.

TFC Davis most recently served at Troop C in Tolland. A 27-year veteran of the State Police, he entered the State Police Academy on Apr. 4, 1988, and graduated with the 98th Training Troop on Sept. 2, 1988.

During his career, he served as a Tolland Resident Trooper, a DARE Instructor and Field Training Officer for new troopers. Davis was also actively involved with the Troop C Explorer Post. He lived in Hebron with his family.

A highly respected trooper, Davis served with distinction and was well-like by troopers and administrators at Troop C and throughout the agency. During his career, he earned a Medal for Lifesaving award from the State Police.

Lt. Scott Smith, Commanding Officer of Troop C, shared the sentiment of Troop C, stating, “TFC Davis was truly passionate about being a trooper and his attention to detail was superb. Stephen was a true professional and a well-respected member of this department.”

“The unexpected passing of TFC Davis is a loss for this agency,” noted Dora B. Schriro, Commissioner of the Department of Emergency Services and Public Protection. “TFC Davis swore to serve and protect the public and he did so as a true professional, earning the respect of his peers.”

Colonel Brian Meraviglia, Commanding Officer of the Connecticut State Police, described TFC Davis as “a dedicated, distinguished member of the Connecticut State Police family. His brother and sister troopers at Troop C and throughout the agency will miss him tremendously.”

Fellow trooper TFC Daniel McCarthy, shared a Mark Twain quote to describe his friend and co-worker: “The fear of death follows from the fear of life. A man who lives fully is prepared to die at any time.”

On Facebook, CSP colleague Stacey Simmons said Davis was scheduled to retire this year.

He is survived by his wife Jeryl, and daughter Jorden.

Funeral arrangements have not yet been completed.

Photo courtesy of Connecticut State Police