Authorities say Roselle Park police officer Edward Nortrup shot himself after getting into a car accident in Matawan.

The incident happened Sunday afternoon on Broad Street.

Prosecutors say the officer lost control of his car and struck two parked cars.

After first responders left Nortrup’s car to get equipment to help him get out, investigators say he shot himself.

Roselle Park police say Nortrup was a 13-year veteran of the force.

The police chief says Nortrup was always willing to help others, a well-respected member of the law enforcement community and will be sorely missed.