Austin News

A Texas Department of Public Safety trooper who was shot while he helped a driver last week has passed away.

Trooper Chad Walker died March 31 in a Waco hospital.  

"Our DPS family is absolutely heartbroken at the loss of one of our brothers in uniform who was killed in the line of duty," DPS Director Steven McCraw said in a news release on the agency's website. "Chad Walker was committed to protecting the people of Texas."

Walker was shot multiple times when he stopped to help a driver near Mexia around 7:45 p.m. on March 26.

"Trooper Walker's horrific murder in the line of duty is a solemn reminder of the dangers law enforcement officers face every day to keep us safe," Gov. Greg Abbot said in a statement. "We will always support law enforcement here in Texas, and we are indebted to the sacrifices that they make to serve and protect their fellow Texans."

Following his death, Walker's organs were donated to save other people's lives.

"His sacrifice will never be forgotten, and we ask that you keep his family, friends and colleagues in your prayers during the difficult days ahead," McCraw said. 

Walker, a second-generation police officer, leaves behind a wife and four children. 

He started his career at the Groesbeck Police Department in 2003, and also worked for the Athens Police Department, the Henderson County Sheriff's Office, and the Limestone County Sheriff's Office before joining DPS in 2015. 

DeArthur Pinson Jr., the man accused of shooting Walker, was later found dead from what's believed to be a self-inflicted gunshot wound, KXAN reported.