FHP Trooper Killed in the line of duty today

FHP Trooper shot and killed in the line of duty today in Highlands County.

Sergeant Nicholas G. Sottile
Florida Highway Patrol
Florida
End of Watch: Friday, January 12, 2007

Biographical Info
Age: 48
Tour of Duty: 24 years
Badge Number: Not available

Incident Details
Cause of Death: Gunfire
Date of Incident: Friday, January 12, 2007
Weapon Used: Gun; Unknown type
Suspect Info: Apprehended

Sergeant Nicholas Sottile was shot and killed during a traffic stop at the intersection of U.S. 27 and Whitmore Road in Highland County. During the stop one of the two occupants produced a handgun and shot Sergeant Sottile in the chest.

Despite being mortally wounded, Sergeant Sottile was able to notify dispatchers that he had been shot. He was transported to Florida Hospital Lake Placid where he was pronounced dead approximately one hour later.

Both suspects fled the scene but were arrested early the following morning following a massive manhunt.

Sergeant Sottile had served with the agency for 24 years and was assigned to Troop F in Bradenton. He is survived by his wife, daughter and son. His son also serves as a trooper with the Florida Highway Patrol.

Agency Contact Information
Florida Highway Patrol
Neil Kirkman Building
2900 Apalachee Parkway
Tallahassee, FL 32399

Phone: (850) 487-3139