Clay Sheriff’s Deputy dies from injuries sustained in motorcycle crash

The Clay County Sheriff’s Deputy critically injured in a crash this weekend has now died.

Deputy Ben Zirbel, a 12-year veteran of the force, leaves behind a wife and 8-year-old son.

"Ben's passion in life was to help people, which is why he became a Sheriff's Deputy. Even now, in this moment of our most painful grief, I am happy to say that Ben is still helping people. Ben was a registered organ donor, and it gives me some comfort to say that, with his death, he may be helping save the lives of at least 7 other individuals with his organs. He may also possibly be helping up to 100 more people, with the gift of tissue,” says Deputy Zirbel’s wife, Anna.

DONATIONS: Support the family of Deputy Zirbel

He had been in critical condition since being involved in a crash on his patrol motorcycle this weekend. The Florida Highway Patrol says a truck turned in to Zirbel's path at Blanding and Camp Francis Johnson Road on Sunday.

"People wonder why we're out here enforcing traffic laws. It's because things happen. It’s because, when you violate those laws, people can lose their lives. And unfortunately, in this instance, it was a member of the Clay County Sheriff's Office,” says Sheriff Darryl Daniels.

The driver stayed on scene and has been cooperating with the investigation. FHP says any decision on charges is pending further investigation, but that could take at least another 90 days.

While the investigation is still ongoing, Daniels says the circumstances lead him to believe the driver may have had  some kind of distraction.

"His [Zirbel’s] life will have meant something, because if it's the last thing I do, I will ensure that the Clay County Sheriff's Office is represented at the table with the legislators, to ensure that distracted driving and texting while driving is made a primary offence in this state. If it's the last thing I do, it's going to get done,” Daniels says.

For Anna, the legacy is a call to action- she’s encouraging others to register as organ donors as well.

“We never know what’s coming next in life, so don’t take a single day for granted,” she says.

Two accounts have been set up to support Zirbel's family. Daniels says Zirbel's wife and son will always be considered part of the CCSO family, and Anna thanked the Sheriff's Office and community at large for its support.

“We will always miss him, but we know that his kindness and his big heart will life within all of us,” she says.

Daniels says they will relay funeral arrangements as those are made, so that the community will have a chance to come out and show their support for Zirbel.

Law enforcement, first responders, and many others from around the community has taken to social media to express their sorrow at this loss.