MA State Trooper Dies After 2018 Route 3 Collision

BILLERICA, MA — A state trooper who police say was hit by a driver in 2018 during a traffic stop along Route 3 in Billerica died Thursday. Thomas Devlin, 58, had undergone intense medical care in the years following the collision, including multiple surgeries.

Devlin was hit July 28, 2018. He was walking outside his cruiser when a driver from Haverhill hit him, police said. The driver was later charged with negligent operation of a motor vehicle, a lane violation and failure to move for an emergency vehicle, police said.

Devlin began his career at the Concord barracks in 1985, state police said.

"He loved and respected the job, and the job loved and respected him," Col. Christopher Mason said in a statement Thursday. "Above all, he was utterly devoted to his family, and epitomized what it meant to be a loving husband and father. Trooper Devlin was known in the department for his hard work, his rock-solid character, and his commitment to being a reliable friend, co-worker and public servant — a trooper who could be counted on by his colleagues and the public."

Devlin leaves behind a wife and four children, state police said. Plans for a funeral service are pending.