Road Ranger Killed In Turnpike Accident

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MIAMI (CBSMiami) - A road ranger was killed Tuesday while assisting a stranded motorist on the Florida Turnpike extension.

Florida Highway Patrol spokesman Joe Sanchez said the accident happened in the northbound lanes near SW 120th Street.

Road ranger Andres Garcia Boligan, 47, was slowing traffic down to be able to bring a red Mustang across the road and off to the shoulder. At that point, a dump truck in the traffic was unable to slow down in time, hitting the ranger who tried to get out in time to no avail.

Chopper 4, over the scene, spotted a tarp covered body behind the truck which was up on the left shoulder embankment. A light pole which the truck had hit was lodged on the roof of the cab.

Florida Highway Patrol identified the driver of the dump truck as 40-year-old Sergio Gonzalez.

Troopers said Boligan was a veteran of the road ranger force and was well liked.

"Nice guy, he was always willing to help the troopers.....In fact, he was one of the most senior rangers on the roadway," said FHP Trooper Sanchez.

Due to the accident, the northbound lanes at 120th Street were closed down but have since been reopened.

Authorities continue investigating the incident and have not said what charges, if any, Gonzalez will face.