NYS Trooper killed in the line of duty

TONAWANDA, N.Y. (WIVB) - A 14-year veteran of New York State Police has died.

Trooper Kevin Dobson was killed in the line of duty Saturday morning in the Town of Tonawanda.

"He was performing his duties. He was admirably out there, he was working," said Dep. Thomas Fazio.

New York State Trooper Kevin Dobson was issuing a speeding ticket, when tragedy struck .

"This is another time that the State Police has taken a hit, and it's close, Kevin's one of our guys," added Captain Steven Nigrelli.

State Police say just before 7:30 on Saturday morning, a 71 year old driver in a pick up truck , was coming onto the 290 from Colvin Boulevard when he hit the 14 year veteran.

Dep. Fazio said, "It's unfortunate, I'm sure it wasn't an intentional act to strike the trooper, and these accidents effect everybody including the operator of the vehicle."

"The vehicle stopped after striking the trooper and came back to the scene," added Capt.Nigrelli.

Within minutes, officials say Police were on the scene.

"The Town of Tonawanda Police officer was first on the scene. We heard he was a former perimedic. He started rendering first aid immediately," said Dep. Fazio.

Trooper Dobson was brought here to Kenmore Mercy where he passed away less than an hour after the accident.

State Police are continuing to look into what caused the accident.

Could the early morning sun have blinded the driver?

"That would be one of the environmental factors that you look at," said Dep. Fazio.

Fazio added, "Take into consideration anything that can cause an accident. Abstraction in a road way, speed, motor defect, distraction by the driver or actions by the trooper."

Trooper Dobson was stationed out of the State Police Barracks in Clarence.

He was 43 years old when he died.

Police aren't releasing the driver's name and right now no charges have been filed.

Saturday night, Governor Andrew Cuomo ordered flags on all state office building to be flown at half staff in honor of Trooper Dobson.