Texas: Deputy Struck and Killed While Deploying Spike Strips

A long procession of law enforcement officers escorted the body of Bell County Sheriff’s Deputy John Andrew Rhoden from Temple to a funeral home in Belton Tuesday afternoon. Bell County Sheriff’s Deputy John Andrew Rhoden. (Sheriff's Dept. photo)

An 18-wheeler struck and killed Rhoden, 31, at around 1:45 a.m. Sunday on Interstate 35 in Temple while he was attempting to place spike strips on the highway to assist Williamson County deputies, who were pursuing a stolen vehicle.

The vehicle was later found abandoned in Waco.

Temple police and Texas Rangers are investigating.

Services have been scheduled for the fallen deputy, but in the age of COVID-19, the salute won’t be entirely traditional.

Visitation will be open to the public from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Thursday at Dossman Funeral Home at 2525 North Main St. in Belton but mourners were advised Tuesday to be prepared for long lines because of social distancing and occupancy restrictions in place to stem the spread of COVID-19.

A private service for the family begins at 2 p.m. Friday at the funeral home, which will be streamed live by the United States Honor Flag Honor Network.

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