BERLIN, Conn. (WPRI) — Connecticut State Police announced on Thursday that their chaplain, a former Rhode Island pastor, was killed in a motorcycle crash Wednesday night. The Rev. Dr. Paul D. Krampitz, 65, of Cromwell, was riding a motorcycle on Route 9 in Berlin around 4:15 p.m. when a sedan struck him, ejecting him from the vehicle, state police told WTNH, WPRI's Connecticut sister station. He was taken to an area hospital, where he was later pronounced dead, according to WTNH. State police said that in his 16 years as a chaplain, Krampitz was "a pillar to our agency" who “touched the lives of hundreds of Troopers, Dispatchers, and support staff," especially during tragic moments including the Sandy Hook Elementary School shooting. Krampitz was appointed as a state police chaplain in 2008. He also served as pastor of Bethany Lutheran Church in Cromwell and a chaplain for both the Cromwell Police and Fire Departments. From 2004 to 2007, Krampitz served as a pastor at Emanuel Lutheran Church in West Warwick, R.I. "Chaplain Krampitz touched the lives of hundreds of Troopers, Dispatchers, and support staff in his 16 years of service," state police said in a press release. "Often sought after by Troopers, Command Staff, and Chaplains for spiritual support, counsel, mentorship, and guidance; Chaplain Krampitz was a reputable and respected member of our agency." Krampitz leaves behind his wife, Paula, and five children. The driver of the sedan is reportedly cooperating with investigators. Connecticut State Police urge witnesses or anyone with information about the crash to contact Trooper Michael Dean at (860) 534-1098. Close Thanks for signing up! Watch for us in your inbox. Subscribe Now Breaking News SIGN UP NOW