Friends of Clay County deputy critically hurt in a motorcycle crash speak

A co-worker of a Clay County deputy critically hurt in a motorcycle crash said Deputy Ben Zirbel was always looking out for other deputies.

A tough job is suddenly tougher.

“It’s been real somber. A lot of deputies that know Ben real well, including myself, are not feeling the good times right now,” Deputy Claude Hurley said.

Their fellow deputy and friend, Zirbel remains in critical condition after troopers said a truck pulled out in front of his motorcycle.

Investigators said the truck failed to yield while making a left turn onto Camp Francis Johnson Road at Blanding Blvd. The deputy crashed into the back of his trailer and was thrown from his motorcycle.

The wife of the driver in the truck stopped by Sunday night where the crash happened and said she was so sorry for what happened.

“He wanted to trade places with him. He would trade places with him in a heartbeat,” she said.

In 2015, deputies said Zirbel was involved in a motorcycle crash after a driver pulled out in front of him, and he was seriously hurt.

Deputies said Zirbel, a husband and father of a young boy, is always thinking about others.

“A very happy-go-lucky kinda guy, would do anything for you,” he said.

A VyStar account has been set up for Deputy Ben Zirbel and his family. The account number is 7507565803 and you can make a donation at any branch.

Cox Media Group