Photo: Faith Tabernacle Church
A Connecticut pastor was fatally struck by a police patrol vehicle while crossing the street last week.
According to CNN, Stamford police officer Zachary Lockwood hit Rev. Tommie Jackson with his vehicle at around 4:12 p.m. on July 26. Lockwood attempted CPR until paramedics arrived, but Jackson was pronounced dead after being taken to a local hospital.
Connecticut State Police Lt. Katharine Cummings said the patrol car had its emergency lights on before the fatal hit. According to Cummings, Lockwood has been put on administrative leave, which she said is a customary measure taken for this type of incident.
In a statement, Stamford Mayor Caroline Simmons called the pastor's death an “unimaginable tragedy."
“I am devastated and heartbroken by the untimely passing of Rev. Tommie Jackson. Rev. Jackson was a pillar in the Stamford community and led a life devoted to faith and public service."
As a "pillar in the Stamford community," Jackson served as a reverend at the Rehoboth Fellowship Church and Faith Tabernacle Church as well as the assistant director of the city's Urban Redevelopment Commission. Jackson's wife, Dorye, also serves as the vice chair of the Stamford Police Commission.
“I’ve never felt pain or sadness like this in my life, said Jackson’s daughter Erin said of his death.
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