A Trooper from the Ohio State Highway Patrol was struck and killed along Interstate 90 just west of Cleveland on Thursday.

According to the patrol, Trooper Kenneth Velez died shortly after the crash which occurred near Lakewood in Cuyahoga County.

The crash occurred on Interstate Route 90 shortly before 1 p.m.

Trooper Velez was conducting traffic enforcement when we was struck outside of his patrol car.

“This is a tragedy for the Ohio State Highway Patrol and the Department of Public Safety,” said Colonel Paul Pride, Ohio State Highway Patrol Superintendent. “Our prayers go out to the Velez family during this difficult time.”

Trooper Velez, 48, who has been with the Patrol since 1989,  is survived by his three children.

Ohio Fraternal Order of Police President Jay McDonald issued his condolences in a statement saying, "This is just the latest reminder of the difficult and dangerous work of those who have chosen to make public safety their career."

The Highway Patrol says it is not releasing more information about the crash until its investigation is completed.