Police sergeant dies from injuries after officials say man intentionally rammed into his motorcycle

BATON ROUGE, La. (WAFB/Gray News) - A decorated police sergeant in Louisiana died in a hospital after officials said a man rammed into his police motorcycle as he was heading home from a shift.

Baton Rouge Police said Sgt. Caleb Eisworth died Sunday at the age of 44.

According to the police department, Eisworth served in law enforcement for 23 years and was a recipient of the Medal of Valor, the department’s highest honor, along with multiple awards for heroism.

Police said Eisworth was critically injured June 16 after a man intentionally hit Eisworth’s motorcycle along Greenwell Springs Road.

Authorities said the 41-year-old man targeted Eisworth before the collision and was arrested for the incident later that day.

The suspect was charged with criminal damage to property, hate crimes, resisting an officer and first-degree murder.

Eisworth’s family thanked the wider community in a statement made in June.

“Thank you for every good thought, prayer, and well wish that you have sent our way,” the statement said. “They have all been felt, loved, and appreciated. When you see one of our First Responder family members throughout your day, regardless of the uniform they wear, please say a prayer for them to be safe and please thank them.”

Due to the extent of his injuries, the police department revealed in early July that doctors had to amputate both of Eisworth’s legs above the knee.

At the time, Eisworth’s community rallied around him and his family as he worked to recover. Numerous fundraisers were hosted in his honor.

On Sunday, District Attorney Hillar Moore said the man’s attempted murder charge will be upgraded to first-degree murder. Moore also said he plans to seek the death penalty in the case but will consult with Eisworth’s family before making a final decision.

Baton Rouge Police Chief T.J. Morse released a statement regarding Eisworth’s death.

“It is with profound sadness that I must share that our beloved Motors Officer, Sgt. Caleb Eisworth, died moments ago surrounded by loved ones,” the statement reads. “Caleb was an amazing officer and a good man. He spent seven weeks fighting hard to overcome his injuries, but ultimately lost his battle today.”

“I ask that our community continue to lift the Eisworth family and the men and women of our Baton Rouge Police Department up in prayer,” the statement concludes.

Officials said Eisworth leaves behind a wife and a 12-year-old daughter.