Trooper in Skyway 10K crash honored by Manatee County for her ‘courage and bravery’
After preventing a potential mass tragedy on the Sunshine Skyway Bridge earlier this month, a Florida Highway Patrol officer has been honored by Manatee County leaders.
Trooper Toni Schuck, a 26-year law enforcement veteran, used her vehicle to stop a drunk driver from speeding into the path of 8,000 runners during the annual Skyway 10K race on March 6. Her actions saved countless lives, officials say.
“Toni may not think she’s a hero, but everyone in this room knows her courageous act was remarkable,” said FHP Maj. Jeff Dixon. “Courage and bravery are not things you can train. We’re very proud of Toni and proud to be here.”
During a public meeting Tuesday morning, the Manatee Board of County Commissioners presented Schuck with a plaque commemorating March 22, 2022, as Toni Schuck Day for her “quick thinking and selfless decision.”
“This wasn’t like she side-swiped the person,” said County Commissioner Kevin Van Ostenbridge. “This was a head-on collision.”
Following the crash, which totaled both vehicles, FHP released dashcam video capturing life-saving Schuck’s actions. Commissioners played the video during the meeting, leading to gasps of shock from the crowd.
“I’ve watched that video a few times, and it gets harder to watch every time because it could have ended so differently than what it did,” Commissioner Vanessa Baugh told Schuck. “You showed such courage, bravery — and the thing that hits me the most is you showed your love for our community.”
Schuck suffered serious injuries to her neck and spine as a result of the crash.
Bradenton Mayor Gene Brown also joined in the ceremony, presenting Schuck with a key to the city of Bradenton.
“Just looking at her and seeing the humility that comes out, she did what she did because she loves us and the community,” Brown said.
Schuck was the last line of defense for runners during the Skyway 10K race. Kevin Oatman, a planner in the county’s Development Services Department, was one of the runners on the bridge at the time.
“We are blessed for law enforcement to be out there protecting us. If it wasn’t for you keeping us safe, we wouldn’t be able to do what we do,” Oatman said. “Thank you for what you’ve done. It means a great deal.”
FHP also has reminded drivers that March is Impaired Driving Awareness Month in Florida, “and together, we can help prevent these tragedies from occurring. The Florida Highway Patrol reminds all motorists to drive responsibility, seek ride-sharing opportunities, utilize designated drivers and interdict impaired drivers by calling #FHP.”
