Merle J. Cook

End of Watch:   Monday, July 13, 1981

Trooper Cook was in an airplane crash in St. John’s County while assisting in the search for two suspects wanted for breaking and entering. Corporal Cleo Tomlinson and Trooper Robert Pruitt were also lost in this crash.

Trooper Cook had served the residents of Florida, with the Florida Highway Patrol, for 10 years. His career with FHP began January 1, 1971. He was in the 40th recruit class in Tallahassee, from January 10 to March 31, 1972.  He was stationed in Fort Lauderdale, Brooksville and Lake City.  At the time of his death, he was 44. He was survived by his wife, Mary.