Charles Herring, a Pembroke Pines police officer, died on Thursday after a piece of debris from a tree fell on him while he was on his motorcycle, authorities said. A candlelight vigil was held for the officer as people from the city left messages for him on his patrol car.

Pembroke Pines Police Department, on Facebook, said that officer Charles Herring was on duty when the incident happened just before 11:30 a.m. at the intersection of Northwest 184 Avenue and Sheridan Street. He was riding his department-issued motorcycle when a piece of debris fell from a tree and struck him.

“Officer Herring succumbed to his injuries despite all lifesaving efforts from fellow officers and emergency medical professionals,” the police department posted.

“The Pembroke Pines Police Department posted on Facebook that It is with heavy hearts and great sadness that we announce the untimely death of Pembroke Pines Police Officer Charles “Charlie” Herring. While on duty, “Charlie” was involved in a tragic accident while riding his police motorcycle,” their Facebook post read.

“A piece of debris fell from a tree, striking Officer Herring and causing him to fall from his motorcycle.
Officer Herring succumbed to his injuries despite all lifesaving efforts from fellow officers and emergency medical professionals.
Officer Herring dedicated his life to public service and was a veteran of the United States Army. He also served as a police officer for the City of Starke (FL) for three years, before beginning his career as a Pembroke Pines Police Officer in 2001.
Officer Charles Herring paid the ultimate sacrifice doing what he loved, serving and protecting others. He will be missed by all who knew and loved him.”