KILLEEN, Texas — Fort Cavazos officials confirmed that the motorcyclist who died in the hit-and-run in Killeen on Sunday, June 11, was Staff Sgt. Eric Rucker.
According to officials, Rucker had been at Fort Cavazos since 2019 and he was assigned to the 2nd Battalion, 7th Cavalry Regiment, 3rd Armored Brigade Combat Team, 1st Cavalry Division.
During his time in the Army, Rucker amassed the following awards and achievements:
- 2 Army Commendation Medals
- 4 Army Achievement Medals
- 2 Army Good Conduct Medals
- National Defense Service Medal Ribbon
- Inherent Resolve Campaign Medal
- Afghanistan Campaign Medal
- Global War on Terrorism Medal
- Korea Defense Service Medal
- Army Service Ribbon
- Army Overseas Service Ribbon
Commander of 2-7 Cavalry Battalion Lt. Col. Wellock stated, "He will not be forgotten, and his legacy will continue through the outstanding performance of the Troopers he led in the Ghost Battalion. We extend our deepest condolences to Staff Sgt. Rucker's family, his loved ones, and his friends."
Officials say that the unit leadership will provide support and assistance to Rucker's family in this time of need.
The Killeen Police Department is still searching for the driver involved in the hit-and-run.
According to police, officers responded to the 1900 block of East Elms Road to the report of a crash at about 2:31 a.m.
Upon arrival, police say Rucker was discovered lying in the roadway, suffering from serious injuries.
According to police, Rucker was pronounced dead at the scene by Justice of the Peace Nicola James at 3:21 a.m.
Police say the preliminary investigation revealed that Rucker and another person were traveling on their motorcycles, heading west on East Elms Road. Rucker dropped something in the roadway, causing both motorcyclists to stop and attempt to retrieve the item.
Police say this is when Rucker was struck by the car described as a smaller gray sedan.
The Killeen Police Department asks that anyone with information on this incident to contact Crime Stoppers at 254-526-8477.