Attorney Brian Kopp files wrongful death lawsuit on behalf of the family of an “American Hero”, Ohio State Highway Patrol Trooper, Nicholas Cayton
On October 16, 2025, Ohio State Highway Patrol Trooper Nicholas “Nick” Cayton, 40, was killed in the line of duty while assisting a disabled commercial vehicle on State Route 11 in Canfield, Ohio.
Today, Attorney Brian Kopp filed a wrongful death lawsuit on behalf of the Estate of Trooper Cayton in Mahoning County Common Pleas Court. “Nick Cayton was an American Hero who served his country in Iraq and Afghanistan. He then devoted his professional life to the protection of Ohio citizens” Kopp said. “It is humbling to represent Lynsey Cayton and her family. Our investigation of the crash is ongoing, and this lawsuit will give us the opportunity to hold all wrongdoers accountable for their negligence.”
Download/read the complaint here.
The lawsuit states that Trooper Cayton responded to a disabled commercial vehicle stopped in a northbound lane on Route 11 at approximately 11:52 A.M. While seated in his cruiser, a 2007 Mack truck driven by 35-year-old Ryan Rach of Canfield smashed into the rear of the patrol car. Trooper Cayton died as a result of the injuries sustained in the crash.
The wrongful death lawsuit names Rach, TRDB Investments, LLC d/b/a Quaker City Concrete Products and Nelson De Jesus Herrera-Vasquez, driver of the disabled commercial vehicle as defendants. The lawsuit also names John/Jane defendants. The five-count lawsuit alleges Trooper Nick Cayton died as a result of defendants’ negligence, vicarious liability, negligent hiring/supervision and retention.
Ohio law provides that family members of the decedent may seek monetary damages from the defendants for the family’s loss of financial support, companionship, care, assistance, protection, as well as mental anguish.
“Trooper Cayton lived a life of service to his family, country and our local community. We will work tirelessly to see that justice is done in this case.”
