Maryland State Police honors fallen hero

The Maryland State Police are mourning the death of a trooper who was killed in Westover 30 years ago. 

"He was getting information from the violator he had stopped and another vehicle came by and struck him and caused his injuries, which ultimately took his life," said Lieutenant Patrick Metzger. 

Police held a memorial service Monday to honor the trooper who died on April 9, 1998. 

Officials say Monk was a dedicated trooper and family man who inspired people like his nephew to follow in his footsteps. But, the tragic death never gave Jordan Monk the chance to meet his uncle. 

"All I've heard of stories my whole life was how great he was," said Monk, a Trooper First Class.

"I just try to fill in those footsteps. He's the main reason I became a Maryland State trooper to honor his name," said Jordan.

Officers are often killed while being on the road, so the Maryland State Police ask drivers to shift lanes to be as far as possible. 

"We just ask everybody to be safe out there and just watch out for us," said Metzger.

"The move over law [asks people] to get away from those emergency responders, tow truck operators, state highway personnel and anybody out there," Metzger said. 

The Maryland State Police will also be hosting the 19th Annual Eric Monk Softball Tournament. The event provides 2,000 dollars worth of scholarships for high school students. 

The event will take place May 17 to May 20 at the Somerset Ruritan Field. 

State Police encourage the community to come out and support the students and the legacy of Monk.