A Florida Highway Patrol trooper died after he suffered a hit while standing on the sideline of the Florida Atlantic football game.

According to the Palm Beach Post, Craig Gaines was providing security for Florida A&M University football coach James Colzie III during a game with Florida Atlantic University on Sept. 6 in Boca Raton. During the game, Gaines was unintentionally hit after an on-field tackle spilled out of bounds. 

Gaines reportedly “shook off” the hit and returned back to work, but it was later determined that he suffered a broken leg. Gaines was at his northern Florida home, Sept. 19, when he began feeling ill. He called for help, and while first responders were on the way, Gaines' condition got worse. After paramedics arrived, they attempted life-saving procedures, but Gaines died from medical complications from his leg injury. 

“Gaines began his career with the agency in 2008 as part of the 115th Recruit Class, following service with the Havana Police Department and the Gadsden County Sheriff's Office in northern Florida. Before entering law enforcement, he served in the United States Navy,” the Palm Beach Post reports.

Many took to social media to post memories about Gaines.

“Florida Atlantic University Athletics is deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Florida Highway Patrol Trooper Craig Gaines," a spokesperson for the university's athletic department said in a statement. "We extend our condolences to the Gaines family, Florida A&M University, FHP, and to all those that knew and loved him.”

Gaines, 58, had been married for 28 years and had three children. 

"Rest Easy my FRIEND!!," Colzie posted on X. 

"For 6 years you went everywhere I went on away trips. You escorted me on and off the field for 58 straight games!" Willie Simmons, now the head football coach at Florida International University in Miami, wrote on his X account. "I wasn't prepared to get the news Friday of your passing. Rest in Heaven brother!"