LAFAYETTE, Ind. — A retired Indiana state trooper died last week after being hit by a car in Lafayette.
Theodore Dudzinski, 87, was attempting to cross North Ninth Street near the intersection with Ferry Street just before noon on Wednesday, Feb. 1, when he stepped into the path of a car.
Lafayette police said the 17-year-old driver who hit Dudzinski couldn't have avoided the crash.
Dudzinski was taken to the hospital and died the next morning.
The driver was not injured.
Dudzinski was a U.S. Army veteran and a master trooper with the Indiana State Police for nearly 33 years, according to his obituary.
Indiana State Police released the following statement about Dudzinski's death:
"We are saddened about the loss of Master Trooper Theodore Dudzinski, who served the citizens of Indiana for over 30 years. The Indiana State Police would like to offer our condolences to his family and friends as they continue to be in our thoughts and Prays during these difficult times."
Dudzinski is survived by his wife, Carolyn, and their children Marie Mann, Father Ted Dudzinski, Father Andrew Dudzinski, Father Brian Dudzinski and Margia Crooks. He is also survived by his grandchildren Shelby Bryant, Kylie Mann, Joshua Crooks and Regina Crooks.