26-year-old Dusty Beck and State Trooper John Horton were killed in a fatal collision in Rutherford County, NC on January 3, 2022. The men were killed by State Trooper James Horton. James and John were brothers, and they are both North Carolina State Troopers.
On Monday January 3, 2022 at 8:58 p.m., John was struck by James while responding to a traffic stop at High Shoals Church Rd. and Goodes Grove Church Rd.
Trooper James was responding to assist with a traffic stop being conducted by his brother Trooper John.
James lost control of his vehicle upon approaching the traffic stop and collided with the stationary patrol vehicle and subsequently struck John and the detained driver who were standing along the roadside. The detained driver was Dusty Beck.
John was transported to a hospital where he died of his injuries. Dusty was pronounced deceased at the scene.
James was taken to a local hospital for minor injuries and has since been released.
Colonel Freddy L. Johnson Jr., commander of the State Highway Patrol released this statement:
“Our hearts are broken with the loss of our friend and our brother, Trooper John Horton. For all involved in this tragic event the coming days will undoubtedly be difficult, but we are committed to stand alongside with them with our thoughts, prayers and unwavering support.”
John is a fifteen year veteran of the highway patrol.
