Fallen state trooper remembered for dedication, compassion

The funeral for Connecticut State Trooper Kevin Miller, who died in the line of duty last week, saw a massive turnout in East Hartford Friday morning.

Miller, a 19-year police veteran, was killed in a car accident on Interstate 84 in Tolland last Thursday. Investigators say his cruiser struck the rear end of a slow-moving tractor-trailer on the highway.

"He was a professional, a hardworking road dog," said Trooper David Piela, a colleague. "And a person I saw wanting to make a difference in the lives of children and people who he interacted with, on his calls or just at patrol."

The funeral began with a procession of state police, who stood in the snow and paid their respects. Gov. Dannel Malloy also tweeted condolences Friday.

Col. George Battle, the state police's commanding officer, praised Miller's service and character.

"It was clear that his infectious smile, laugh, sense of humor, combined with his professional work ethic, compassion and concern for others made him the wingman we would all be lucky to have," Battle said in a eulogy. "It is said that when a hero falls, an angel rises. And Kevin, we're sure your service is not over as you watch over us from above in your new patrol assignment in heaven."

Miller had two children.