Boston was hit with a wave of grief as Governor Maura T. Healey ordered flags to half-staff to honor a fallen hero, Waltham Police Officer Paul Tracey. Killed in the line of duty, Tracey's death and that of Roderick Jackson, a National Grid worker, have struck a chord across the Commonwealth. In a gesture of respect and mourning, all state buildings will see the American and Massachusetts flags lowered.
While addressing the tragedy, Governor Healey stated, "I was horrified to hear that a Waltham Police Officer and several National Grid workers were struck by a car while on the job yesterday." Injured in the incident were several others, for whom the Governor prayed for a swift recovery. Governor Healey, deeply moved by the accident, has also extended her gratitude towards law enforcement for their prompt action in apprehending a suspect, as reported by mass.gov.
Officer Tracey's commitment to his community was unwavering, as he is remembered as a hero by those who knew him both in and out of uniform. Struck by a car while on duty, his life was prematurely taken, leaving behind a legacy of service and courage. "I’m thinking about his wife Kristin, a fellow member of law enforcement, his kids, and the Waltham Police Department as they mourn this immeasurable loss", Governor Healey expressed, conveying the depth of sorrow that this event has forced upon the community and Officer Tracey's family.
The tragedy has not only robbed the Tracey family of a husband and father but also robbed the law enforcement community of a respected comrade. The lives of both Officer Tracey and Roderick Jackson were described as being senselessly taken, leaving behind a wake of despair and questions. The governor's statement offered solace, as she mentioned Officer Tracey's significant impact on the community, having served with distinction and being regarded as a local hero by many, as per the statement obtained from mass.gov.
