Connecticut State Police has announced the line of duty death of Trooper First Class Aaron Pelletier #536 of Troop H-Hartford.

TFC Pelletier was on a traffic stop on I-84 East in Southington, just prior to Exit 31, around 2:36 this afternoon when he was struck outside of his cruiser by a passing vehicle, which evaded the scene.

TFC Pelletier sustained fatal injuries and was pronounced at the scene.

The evading operator was located shortly thereafter and is currently in custody.

Governor Ned Lamont has directed US and state flags in Connecticut lowered to half-staff effective immediately in honor of CSP TFC Pelletier.

Hook & Ladder firefighters will be lowering the flag on the Main Street flagpole within the hour.

Flags shall remain lowered until sunset on the date of interment, which has not yet been determined.