05/06/2026
The Gardner Police Department extends our deepest condolences to the MA State Police and Trooper Trainor’s family.
The Massachusetts State Police announce the line-of-duty death of Trooper Kevin Trainor, 30, who was senselessly killed this morning by a wrong-way driver.
At the conclusion of his public safety detail shortly before 2 a.m., Trooper Trainor began his commute home. Minutes later, 911 received a call reporting a wrong-way driver traveling South on Route 1 North in Lynnfield. Several dedicated Troopers converged on the area and located the vehicle traveling the wrong way at 2:03 a.m. One minute later, at 2:04 a.m., the vehicle collided with Trooper Trainor’s cruiser.
While nothing will ever repair the pain we feel today, we make a solemn promise to never forget Trooper Trainor and his service to the Commonwealth. Kevin served as a Corrections Officer in Essex County before joining the State Police as a member of the 88th Recruit Training Troop. In his decorated career, he mentored new Troopers as a Field Training Officer or “Trooper Coach,” earned a place on the prestigious Troop Community Action Team, set the standard for professionalism, and patrolled our roads with a singular focus: keeping the people of this Commonwealth safe.
Beyond his professional accomplishments, Trooper Trainor’s classmates have shared stories of his genuine care and concern for others. As one person put it, “he was the guy you wanted as your backup.”
Colonel Noble said in his remarks this afternoon, “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.”
We deeply appreciate the outpouring of support from our Governor, the Secretary of Public Safety, and friends in Massachusetts and across the country. We will remember and honor this extraordinary man, son, fiancée, and friend who gave his life for others.
