Trooper George Hanna, 36, was killed during a traffic stop on a cold February night in 1983 while patrolling near the intersection of routes 12 and 20 in Auburn. He had picked up an extra Saturday shift. During the stop he began searching one occupant and found a weapon; at that moment another occupant produced a handgun and fired multiple times. Trooper Hanna was gravely wounded and attempted to drag himself back to his cruiser to call for help.

All three occupants were arrested in the ensuing investigation, later convicted for their roles in his murder and each sentenced to life in prison. Hanna left behind a wife and three young children. The state’s highest award for bravery in law enforcement was named in his honor, and both the interchange where he was slain and a bridge in his hometown of Natick bear his name.

If anyone knew Trooper Hanna or has information about his service or that night, please share memories or details.