MOLINE ACRES, Mo. — A Moline Acres police sergeant died Saturday after a crash during an overnight traffic stop.
He has been identified as 54-year-old St. Herschel Turner.
Police said the crash happened on Chambers Road near Lance Drive. The sergeant was hit by another officer's car while assisting with a traffic stop early Saturday morning.
According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, which is handling the investigation, the car was driving westbound on Lance Drive and veered off of the right side of the roadway, striking Turner. No other information on what led up to the crash was given.
Police said he was rushed to the hospital in critical condition, but died Saturday.
At a Sunday press conference, Moline Acres Police Chief Gregory Moore described Turner's death as "just one of those freak accidents that happened."
Moore said Turner was a "perfect attendance-type officer" who loved his job and did it well.
Turner had served north county communities for 22 years and served with the Moline Acres Police Department since 2015, Moore said. He is survived by his wife and three daughters.
"His unfortunate death occurred while serving our community. He was an outstanding asset to the city of Moline Acres and the community. He served the city proudly," he said. "...Anyone who knew him knew that he would give you the shirt off his back. He was that type of guy."
BackStoppers will provide immediate and ongoing assistance to Turner's family.
“The dedication to service and protection from Sgt. Hershel Turner will never be forgotten. He will be honored and remembered always. Our deepest thoughts and prayers are going out to all who loved and knew Sgt. Turner.” BackStoppers Executive Director Chief Ron Battelle said.
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This story will be updated when more information becomes available.