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Thousands pay respects as fallen UHP Trooper Eric Ellsworth laid to rest

Posted at 5:37 PM, Nov 30, 2016
and last updated 2016-11-30 23:26:47-05

BRIGHAM CITY, Utah -- There was an outpouring of community support and love from law enforcement personnel from all over Wednesday as fallen Utah Highway Patrol Trooper Eric Ellsworth was laid to rest.

American Flags lined the streets of Brigham City as an honor guard of hundreds of police led a procession escorting Ellsworth to his final resting place.

Ellsworth, 31, leaves behind a wife and three sons.

"It's a hard day for our organization," said Col. Mike Rapich of the Utah Highway Patrol. "But the outpouring of support and the solidarity from this community and this state and the public safety profession, really does stand as a testament that people really do appreciate the service that law enforcement provides."

Rapich said there were many who paid their respects along the route.

"Flags draped across overpasses, young Boy Scout troops saluting the flag as they came by," he said. "At one point we rode by and there were two farmers that had pulled over their tractor, stepped off their tractor with their hand over their heart."

Graveside services for Ellsworth included a 21-gun salute and an end of watch broadcast, which is an emotional ceremony honoring fallen officers and a chance to say goodbye. See the video above for that end of watch broadcast or see the text below.

"All units this is the final radio call for Trooper 395, Eric Ellsworth. Thank you for your dedication and service to your family and friends, the Utah Highway Patrol, and the people of Utah. Our hearts are broken, but your legacy will live on forever. We will miss your sweet spirit and that beautiful smile. Thank you Eric, God be with you until we meet again. Last call given this 30th day of November, 2016. All units, UHP Trooper 395 Eric Ellsworth is now 1042 [Ending Tour of Duty]."

A funeral was held earlier in the day at the Dee Events Center, click here for that video.

Ellsworth was injured in an accident in Box Elder County when he was struck by a vehicle after he got out of his patrol car to warn other drivers of a downed power line. He died several days later.