Arrested Broward County Man in Fatal Crash: Prosecutor’s Reasons Revealed

FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. (AP) – A man facing charges in the deaths of a state trooper and a truck driver has a history of arrests and legal troubles, including probation revocation, stolen goods, and various weapons charges. Michael Addison, 30, led Florida Highway Patrol Trooper James Zachary Fink on a chase on Interstate 95, resulting in a fatal crash. Court records show prior incidents of domestic violence, theft, and probation violation in Broward County.

Officials have not disclosed Addison’s motive for fleeing from the trooper. His probation was revoked in May 2022 after an incident where he allegedly assaulted his ex-girlfriend and failed to pay probation-related fees. Court records further indicate that Addison had previously engaged in identity theft and theft of electronics from Walmart.

Prosecutors dropped charges related to theft and assault after video evidence suggested Addison was not at fault, and a domestic violence case was also unable to move forward due to lack of cooperation from the victim and insufficient independent evidence. Addison also has a history of weapons charges and previous legal issues, including burglary and grand theft. Additionally, he has outstanding fines and unpaid rent.

Addison is being held without bond at the St. Lucie County Jail. The arrest report has not been made public by the Florida Highway Patrol or the St. Lucie County Sheriff’s Office.