The following is a news release from the Office of Texas Governor Greg Abbott:

Governor Greg Abbott released the following statement after Department of Public Safety Senior Trooper Thomas Nipper was tragically killed in the line of duty earlier this afternoon. 
   
“Trooper Nipper was a dedicated member of Texas’ law enforcement community, and like his fellow officers, I am saddened to learn of his tragic death. The men and women who make the commitment to keeping us safe are every day heroes, and we should always remember the risks and sacrifices they make to serve their fellow Texans. Cecilia and I ask all Texans to join us in keeping Trooper Nipper, his family, and all those close to him in our thoughts and prayers. May God grant them peace and comfort during this difficult time.”

(News release from the Office of Texas Governor Greg Abbott)