CT troopers escort slain Capitol Police officer on return to Massachusetts

The motorcade was scheduled to travel along Route 75 through Suffield and Enfield before crossing into Massachusetts.

WINDSOR LOCKS — Connecticut state police helped escort the body of U.S. Capitol Police Officer William Evans home to Massachusetts Wednesday evening.

Evans, an 18-year veteran of the force, was killed earlier this month after he was rammed by a vehicle near the capitol, the Associated Press reported. The vehicle’s driver was shot dead by another officer after he emerged holding a knife.

The incident occurred just weeks after the Jan. 6 violent assault on the capitol building which left several people dead, including Officer Brian Sicknick. Howard Liebengood, another officer, died by suicide in the days following.

Evans, who went by Billy, lay in honor at the U.S. Capitol Rotunda on Tuesday as he was eulogized by President Joe Biden and leading lawmakers, The Associated Press reported.

On Wednesday afternoon, Evans’ remains arrived at Bradley International Airport, where motorcycle units of the Connecticut State Police were waiting to escort him to Massachusetts.

The motorcade was scheduled to travel along Route 75 through Suffield and Enfield before crossing into Massachusetts, where Evans will be laid to rest in North Adams, according to state police.

Video of the motor procession showed a black hearse carrying Evans led and followed by state police motorcycle units and police cruisers.

An American flag could be seen draped over Evans’ coffin.