ST. LOUIS—A St. Louis Metropolitan Police Officer has died after being hit by a while working a crash Sunday morning, according to the department. 

Chief Robert Tracy says 44-year-old officer David Lee was called to the scene of a one-car accident involving an off-duty Ferguson firefighter on I-70 near Grand Ave. 

“We are devastated,” said Tracy.

Lee, an 18-year-veteran of the department, was behind his patrol car getting traffic cones when a driver lost control of a vehicle, hitting Lee. 

Chief Tracy explained during an evening press briefing that the off-duty firefighter ran to help Lee.

“Risking her own life, the off-duty Ferguson firefighter rushed to help officer Lee. She got on his radio asking for help,” said Tracy.

Firefighters took Lee to the hospital where he died during surgery.

Chief Tracy said the driver was taken into custody at the scene and showed signs of impairment. He declined to say more due to the ongoing investigation, but promised to release additional information Monday.

The commander for the traffic division said another officer was responding to assist Lee at the time of the crash. He also added It was raining at the time, making it a “dangerous situation.”

Circuit Attorney Gabe Gore said his office is working closely with police and will review an application for charges when one is filed. 

Mayor Tishaura Jones says she visited with Lee’s wife and two children this afternoon. She added a memorial police car is outside the North County precinct where friends, family and colleagues can pay their respects. 

Lee spent the last four years working in the department’s traffic division. Colleagues remembered him as a quiet, hardworking family man. 

Chief Tracy said there are resources to help the grieving officers. He also thanked the local departments and organizations rallying around them.

“We are heartbroken, but we will continue to serve and protect the city of St. Louis and make our fallen colleague proud,” Tracy said.