LYNNFIELD, MA (WGGB/WSHM) – A Massachusetts state trooper is dead after a crash Wednesday morning.

Mass. State Police said Trooper Kevin Trainor was beginning his commute home around 2 a.m. when a 911 call was made reporting a driver heading southbound on the northbound side of Route 1 in Lynnfield.  Other troopers headed to the area and found the wrong-way vehicle at 2:03 a.m.  One minute later, Trainor’s cruiser was hit by the vehicle at 2:04 a.m.

Trainor, who was assigned to the Danvers barracks, was taken to Massachusetts General Hospital, according to WCVB-TV, where State Police spokesperson Tim McGuirk said Trainor died from his injuries. WCVB-TV added that the wrong-way driver also died as a result of the crash.

“Make no mistake: Trooper Trainor saved lives this morning. His courage – his commitment to serve the citizens of the Commonwealth and put his life on the line – prevented an even greater tragedy. He will be remembered as a hero,” said Massachusetts State Police Superintendent Col. Geoffrey Noble.

Trainor, 30, was a Massachusetts corrections officer before joining State Police as a member of the 88th Recruit Training Troop.

“The Trooper was responding to reports of a wrong-way driver and put himself in harm’s way to protect others. This act of service and courage is what our State Police are called to do every day. They show up ready to face danger so the rest of us can be safe. Today, Massachusetts is mourning one of those heroes,” said Massachusetts Governor Maura Healey in a statement. “My thoughts and prayers are with the Trooper’s family, loved ones, and with fellow members of the State Police during this incredibly difficult time.”

Western Mass News will continue to follow this story and will have more as it becomes available.