A Texas state trooper who was shot repeatedly as he stopped to help a stranded motorist has died from his injuries after falling into a coma that lasted for several days, The New York Post reports.
Trooper Chad Walker, 38, was in an ambush Friday, while stopping to assist what he believed was a disabled vehicle near Mexia, south of Dallas, officials said.
As Walker pulled behind the vehicle, the driver exited and opened fire with a handgun, shooting through the windshield of the patrol car before it had come to a full stop. Trooper Walker was struck in the head and abdomen.
The suspect, DeArthur Pinson Jr., 36, fled into a wooded area and remained at large until committing suicide the following day, police said.
“It is with great sadness and a heavy heart that DPS announces the passing of Trooper Chad Walker. Trooper Walker is a hero who bravely served his community. He died following injuries sustained while on patrol,” officials tweeted Wednesday evening.
Walker was taken off life support, which he was on to preserve his organs for donations, police said.
“A beloved father and husband, Trooper Walker was one of DPS’ finest,” the Texas Department of Public Safety said. “His dedication to duty and his selfless sacrifice, in both life and his death, will never be forgotten.”
Walker had served with the Texas Highway Patrol for six years and had 18 years of law enforcement experience.
Walker leaves behind a wife, a 15-year-old son, twin 7-year-old daughters, and a 2-month-old daughter.