DPS Disaster Response Through the Years

August 21, 2020
DPS responded to a massive tornado that hit the West Texas town of Saragosa in 1988.
DPS responded to a massive tornado that hit the West Texas town of Saragosa in 1988.

 

DPS troopers helped secure the scene of the Delta Airlines crash at DFW International Airport in August 1985. The crash killed 137 people, including two people on the ground.
DPS troopers helped secure the scene of the Delta Airlines crash at DFW International Airport in August 1985. The crash killed 137 people, including two people on the ground.

 

In this undated photo, a DPS trooper works the radio during a disaster.
In this undated photo, a DPS trooper works the radio during a disaster.

 

DPS responded when tornadoes struck Jacksonville in November 1987, destroying many buildings including this church.
DPS responded when tornadoes struck Jacksonville in November 1987, destroying many buildings including this church.

 

A tornado that hit Wichita Falls in April 1979 killed at least 44 people and left thousands homeless, including 10 DPS employees.
DPS responded when tornadoes struck Jacksonville in November 1987, destroying many buildings including this church.

 

DPS troopers assisted with traffic control and other law enforcement tasks after this tornado. (Date and location of incident unknown at this time.)
DPS troopers assisted with traffic control and other law enforcement tasks after this tornado. (Date and location of incident unknown at this time.)

 

Highway Patrol troopers assessing damage after the Wichita Falls tornado in April 1979.
Highway Patrol troopers assessing damage after the Wichita Falls tornado in April 1979.