PORTSMOUTH, N.H. — A New Hampshire State Police trooper died in a crash involving a tractor-trailer on Interstate 95 early Thursday morning.
The crash happened on the northbound side, near Exit 3 in Portsmouth.
During a press conference Thursday, officials identified the trooper who was killed as Staff Sgt. Jesse Sherrill.
Sherrill was working a construction detail when his cruiser was hit by a tractor-trailer shortly after 12:30 a.m., according to officials.
New Hampshire State Police Colonel Nathan Noyes said Sherrill began his career in 2001 with the Hooksett Police Department before joining New Hampshire State Police in December 2002. He most recently was promoted to assistant troop commander of Troop A in August 2021.
"Staff Sergeant Sherrill was known as a trooper's trooper, a consummate, dedicated professional, and a true family man," Noyes said.
New Hampshire Gov. Chris Sununu directed all flags on public buildings and grounds in the state be flown at half-staff, effective immediately through sunset on Sunday, Oct. 31.
“He was an individual who nobly answered that call to service, and who was steadfast and devoted to the safety and well-beings of all of his fellow granite-staters," Sununu said.
Speaking at the New England State Police Administrators Conference's annual Women's Leadership Conference Thursday morning, Maine Gov. Janet Mills sent her condolences to the people and law enforcement community of New Hampshire.
According to the New Hampshire Department of Public Safety, northbound lanes will remain closed Thursday morning as part of the investigation.
Maine State Police are assisting.
New Hampshire State Police ask anyone who may have information about the crash to call 603-223-4381 or email spheadquarters@dos.nh.gov.
New Hampshire Governor Chris Sununu tweeted his respects Thursday: