After fighting to recover from critical injuries he sustained in a motorcycle crash more than two months ago, a Georgia State trooper and member of the governor’s executive detail has died.
Sgt. Tony Henry of Covington was injured in an accident in Tampa just before 1:50 p.m. Dec. 3, officials said.
He was heading eastbound on Fla. 574 when the vehicle in front of him slowed to turn into a gas station, Florida Highway Patrol Sgt. Steve Gaskins said.
Henry “failed to slow,” hit the vehicle and was “ejected from the motorcycle onto the roadway,” Gaskins said.
Henry was taken to a hospital, where he remained until his death on Tuesday.
The other driver wasn’t injured in the crash.
News of Henry’s death prompted social media tributes from Gov. Nathan Deal, Lt. Gov. Casey Cagle and others.
“Our hearts are heavy tonight,” Deal said, “but we rejoice knowing he is a better place.”
Henry had a career in law enforcement that spanned more than 20 years and included stints with police agencies in Conyers and Covington. He also served on former Gov. Sonny Perdue’s executive detail.
State Sen. Tyler Harper asked the state Senate for a moment of silence to honor Henry’s life.
“Sgt. Henry was a Trooper’s trooper and a wonderful individual who upheld not only his profession in high esteem but was also a friend and family man,” Harper said. “He represented our state to the utmost for 17 years as a Georgia patrolman and he will be missed by all.”
The father of four was married to Newton County 911 operations manager Trudy Henry.
“Tony’s final act epitomized that dedication by saving, and changing several lives through being an organ donor,” Newton 911 director Mike Smith said. “Out of this tragedy Tony once again selflessly found a way to help others and set a great example for us all.”
In December, family friend Anessa Westmoreland started a GoFundMe page to raise money “for travel expenses, lodging expenses for Trudy and her family, as well as any medical bills for Tony.” More than $10,000 in donations poured in over two months.
“I don't know what words to say to comfort the family,” Westmoreland said, “but I know that he is no longer hurting or suffering.”
No funeral arrangements have been made at this time.
— Staff writer Greg Bluestein contributed to this report.
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